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A CHORUS OF GOOD-BYES 


The Rambler Club’ 


Motor Car 


BY Wr CRISPIN SHEPPARD 



AUTHOR OF 


“THE RAMBLER 
“THE rambler 
“THE RAMBLER 
“THE rambler 
“THE rambler 
“THE RAMBLER 
“THE rambler 
“THE RAMBLER 
“THE RAMBLER 


CLUB AFLOAT” 

CLUB’S WINTER CAMP” 

CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS” 

CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH” 

CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS 
CLUB’S GOLD MINE” 

CLUB’S AEROPLANE” 

CLUB’S HOUSEBOAT” 

CLUB’S ball NINE” 


Illustrated by the Author 



) ) 
9 > 

) > 

« . 9 


THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY 
P H I L A D B 1/ P H I A 
MCMXIII 





COPYEIGHT 
1913 BY 
THE PENN 
PUBLISHING 
COMPANY 


^.J~o 

©CI.A347803 

! 


Introduction 


The various adventures which have befallen 
Bob Somers and his fellow members of the 
club which the boys formed at Kingswood, 
Wisconsin, are related in The Rambler Club 
Afloat,’^ ‘‘ The Rambler Club’s Winter Camp,” 

The Rambler Club in the Mountains,” “ The 
Rambler Club on Circle T Ranch,” “The 
Rambler Club among the Lumberjacks,” “ The 
Rambler Club’s Gold Mine,” “ The Rambler 
Club’s Aeroplane ” and “ The Rambler Club’s 
House-Boat.” 

Bob Somers, Dave Brandon and Tom Clifton, 
three members of the club, have reached 
Chicago, homeward bound after a trip up the 
Hudson. The characters of the boys are widely 
different. Bob Somers is strong and athletic, 
while stout Dave Brandon, inclined to take 
his ease on all possible occasions, can be re- 
markably active when circumstances demand. 
Tom Clifton, a trifle self-conscious, and some- 
times allowing his enthusiasm to carry him 
away, is really not so vain as many think. 


4 


Introduction 


Dave Brandon, poet and historian of the 
club, who is chronicling the various incidents 
and adventures that befall them, feels that 
their present motor car trip will add but little 
to his book. A series of unlooked-for events, 
however, quite reverse this idea. 

In the next book, “ The Rambler Club’s 
Ball Nine,” is told the story of certain inci- 
dents at the Kingswood high school. Several 
of the best players have graduated, and in 
their attempts to reorganize the team the 
Ramblers find themselves involved in a stormy 
and exciting struggle. 

W. Crispin Sheppard. 


Contents 


I. 

Off to Wisconsin 


• 

9 

II. 

The First Lap . 



20 

III. 

The “ Fearless ” 



31 

IV. 

The Circus 



38 

V. 

Georgy, the Giant . 



45 

VI. 

Joe Rodgers 



59 

VII. 

Deserted .... 



74 

VIII. 

Tom at the Wheel . 



88 

IX. 

Speeding .... 



104 

X. 

The Constable 



112 

XL 

Getting a Job . 



125 

XII. 

The New Barker 



137 

XIII. 

Under the Big Top . 



150 

XIV. 

The Whaleback 



169 

XV. 

An Unexpected Voyage . 



178 

XVI. 

Tom Scores 



189 

XVII. 

Elephants 



203 

XVIII. 

A Rough Trip . 



215 

XIX. 

Dave Does Some Riding . 



229 

XX. 

Vic Turns Up . 



243 

XXL 

Explanations . 



251 

XXII. 

Dave Resigns 



259 

XXIII. 

The Arm of the Law 



279 

XXIV. 

The Judge Interferes 



292 

XXV. 

Joe’s Chance 

• 


301 


6 



Illustrations 


A Chorus of Good-byes 
“Are You Working for the Circus ? ” 
“ Steamer Coming,” He Announced 
“ Look Out for Yourselves, Boys ” 

He Sprang to His Place • 


PAGE 

Frontispiece ^ 

. 71 ^ 

• 175 

. 201 
. 284 


The Rambler Club’s Motor Car. 



I 


The Rambler Club’s Motor 
Car 

CHAPTER I 

OFF TO WISCONSIN 

On the steps of a house on Michigan Av- 
enue, Chicago, not far from Thirtieth Street, 
Victor Collins stood gazing up and down the 
wide thoroughfare. There was an expression 
in his eyes which seemed to indicate an ear- 
nest and expectant state of mind. 

The steps belonged to a fine mansion with 
handsome columns on either side of the en- 
trance and an ornate balcony above. Every- 
thing suggested that the neighborhood was 
the home of wealth and aristocracy. Even 
the lad on the steps fitted perfectly into the 
picture. His rather small, slight figure was 
dressed in a natty brown suit, while a cap — a 
very large checkered cap — rested jauntily on 
his neatly brushed hair. Victor Collins' fea- 
9 


lo The Rambler Club’s 

tures were well proportioned, although the 
curves were rather too dainty, perhaps, to suit 
the idea of some critical lads. 

Victor was becoming impatient. Impa- 
tience was one of his principal characteristics. 
Waiting is tedious. So Victor tilted his cap 
far back, the process revealing two frowning 
lines on his forehead which, considering his 
age, should never have existed. 

Fortunately for the lad's peace of mind, 
however, the vigorous honk, honk of a motor 
car, rising above all other sounds in the street, 
suddenly caused his gaze to become centered 
upon the approaching machine. 

Well, thank goodness, here they are at 
last I " he exclaimed, joyfully. 

Running down the steps he reached the 
curb just as a big touring car swung up along- 
side and came to a stop. 

All ready, Victor? " called the chauffeur, 
a broad-shouldered, healthy-looking lad, leap- 
ing to the ground. 

There was no answer, because at the same 
instant three other boys, with much noise and 
laughter, began climbing out. 

The youngest was very tall and thin, and 


Motor Car 


11 


this was accentuated by the stoutness of a 
broadly smiling lad who stood close beside 
him. The fourth member of the group, a 
slender, sandy-haired boy, appeared to be 
about sixteen. His broad forehead and deli- 
cately chiseled features suggested fine intellect. 

The first three. Bob Somers, Tom Clifton 
and Dave Brandon, were members of the 
Rambler Club, who, having made a house- 
boat trip up the Hudson, had reached Chicago 
en route to Wisconsin. Charlie Blake, their 
companion, a classmate, often referred to as 
the grind, on account of his studious habits, 
was on a visit to his friend, Victor Collins. 

It naturally followed that the Ramblers, 
happening to be in Chicago at the same time, 
received an invitation to visit the Collins 
mansion. And it also followed that, as the 
Ramblers were going to have the use of a 
seven passenger touring car, Victor Collins 
was more than pleased to meet them. 

Mr. Somers, Bob's father,, having motored 
to Chicago on business, returned by train, 
leaving the car at a garage, so that the boys 
might use it for the remainder of the journey 
to Kingswood, Wisconsin, their home. 


12 


The Rambler Club’s 


When Victor Collins learned of this inten- 
tion he instantly announced a determination 
to go with the crowd as far as Kenosha. 

“ You see,” he explained to Bob Somers, 
my Uncle Ralph lives there ; and he owns 
the dandiest motor yacht your eyes ever 
looked upon. He’s invited me to take a trip 
to Milwaukee. Talk about sport ! ” 

So the morning had come when Victor’s 
anticipations were about to be realized. 

You’re all as brown as a bunch of street 
cleaners,” he remarked, after salutations had 
been exchanged. I don’t believe that sun- 
tinting will ever wear off, either. Hello, Han- 
nibal, hello ! ” 

He turned and faced the house. 

A very dignified colored man, wearing an 
immaculately clean apron, had opened the 
door and was standing with a large suit case 
in his hand. 

Bring it down and chuck it into the car,” 
commanded Victor. 

An awful lot of stuff for a short trip,” re- 
marked Tom. You ought to throw out half.” 

‘‘ Fade away,” retorted Victor. There’s an- 
other one coming.” 


Motor Car 


13 

‘‘ Mercy I ” snickered Tom. ‘‘ Why don’t 
you bring a department store along?” 

Hannibal made short work of depositing 
the heavy suit cases in the tonneau. Then, 
grinning broadly, he drew forth a letter and 
handed it to Charlie Blake. 

“ It am just come, suh,” he explained. 

“ The handwriting spells Kirk Talbot’s 
name as loud as those checks on Victor’s cap, 
fellows,” cried Blake. 

Kirk Talbot ? ” queried Tom, interestedly. 

We met Kirk often on one of our trips. 
Bemember, Bob? ” 

Bob did, and smiled. 

I’m sorry that he and Nat Wingate won’t 
be back in the school this term,” he remarked. 

By the way, Dave, we’ll have to hustle to 
catch up with our studies.” 

“ Don’t mention it. Bob. Just think of how 
the doors of that school are yawning for us 
even now.” 

“ They’ll have to yawn a mighty big, wide 
yawn for you,” said Victor. 

“ Go ahead, Charlie, read that letter out 
loud,” cried Tom. 

Blake was soon smiling broadly. 


14 The Rambler Club’s 

Kirk has a few interesting knocks to hand 
out, Bob,'^ he chuckled. Just listen : 

‘‘ ‘ Dear Charlie : — 

‘‘ ^ Your last effusion is lying on my 
desk. So you are actually going to meet 
Bob Somers and his chums I Say, don’t 
those chaps manage to have the finest time 
ever, with their aeroplanes, house-boats, au- 
tomobiles and a dash of cowboy life in be- 
tween I 

“ ^ And you are going to motor back to 
Kingswood with them I That’s great. 

‘ But I’ve got a bit of news which ought 
to make Bob Somers sit up and take notice. 
Nat Wingate and I have formed a football 
team. Yes, it’s true. There’s a lot of good 
material going to waste here in town. And 
the high school team has had its own way so 
long it’s time somebody took them down a peg. 
And though we really hate to do it those 
chaps are in for the worst drubbing of their 
career, and we’re even talking about a ball 
nine next spring.’ ” 

Are we going to stay here all day ? ” 
grumbled Victor. 


Motor Car 


15 

Just a few moments, Vic,’' laughed Charlie, 
resuming : 

“ ‘ Now that Nat Wingate has gone those 
high school chaps are like an army without 
a general.’ ” 

Huh 1 ” remarked Tom, frowning slightly. 

‘‘ ‘ Now, Charlie, here’s what Nat and I 
think. Bob Somers and his Rambler crowd 
may be pretty good at bowling over grizzlies, 
collecting panther skins, or busting bronchos, 
but when it comes to either football or base- 
ball ’ ” 

“ Well, I like that I ” broke in Tom indig- 
nantly. 

“ Prepare yourself for the worst,” laughed 
Charlie. Listen to this : 

‘ I guess they are simply out of the run- 
ning.’ ” 

“ Did you ever, Bob Somers ! ” cried Tom. 
** The nerve of him'I ” 

Oh, don’t worry. I guess the high school 
eleven can take care of any crowd he brings,” 
said Bob. 

There are some pretty good baseball 
players, though, in Kingswood,” said Tom. 
‘‘ I guess it’s up to us to take hold next 


i6 The Rambler Club’s 

spring and put a little ginger into our 
crowd.” 

“You haven’t quite the shape for a ball 
player, Clifton,” remarked Victor, with a 
critical stare. 

“ Humph ! ” sniffed Tom. 

“ For goodness’ sake, finish that letter, 
Blake,” continued Victor, with a grin. 

“ ^ I hear that the Kingswood High has a 
chance to get an athletic field,’ ” read Charlie. 
“ ‘ Mr. Rupert Barry owns a large plot of 
ground which ought to make a dandy ball 
park. But, so far, it is only a rumor, and 
maybe a silly one, at that. You would think 
so if you saw some of the playing the K. H. S. 
has done recently. 

“ * Tell Bob Somers what I said. Good-bye 
and good luck. 

“ ‘ Your old chum, 

“ ' Kirk.’ ” 

“ A nice long letter,” drawled Dave. 

“ Is that all you have to say about it? ” de- 
manded Tom. 

“ Well, Tom,” said Dave, slowly, “ your sug- 
gestion needs consideration.” 


Motor Car 


17 

You haven’t quite the shape for a ball 
player either, Brandon,” said Victor. 

‘‘ Goodness — Dave’s turn now I ” snickered 
Tom. What kind of a figure must a ball 
tosser have, anyway ? ” 

“ Somers is about right,” answered Victor, 
calmly. “ But a chap that is either all bones 
or all fat won’t do.” 

We’ll show you some day,” snapped Tom, 
hotly. 

Baseball was a rather sore subject with 
Charlie Blake. He had tried it the season 
before, but lack of confidence in himself 
speedily caused him to drop out of the game. 

Some of the boys who were not of a very 
considerate nature concluded that Charlie had 
a yellow streak, and, at this point. Bob Somers 
earned Blake’s everlasting gratitude by stick- 
ing manfully to him. 

“ Say,” remarked the latter, rather dole- 
fully, I’m sorry I didn’t make good on the 
nine last year. I certainly tried hard enough.” 

“ Maybe you didn’t have the right kind of 
a figure,” said Tom, with tremendous sar- 
casm. 

A nice thing to waste all this time,” 


i8 The Rambler Club’s 

grunted Victor. “ We ought to be burning 
up some of those country roads. 

That’s right,” laughed Bob Somers. Pile 
in, fellows.” 

His eyes sparkled as they ran over the 
graceful lines of the big touring machine. It 
was finished in a deep, rich red, relieved by 
touches of darker color. Polished lamps, 
steering gear and levers, in places, shot back 
the rays of the early morning sun. 

It was something to feel that they were 
actually in possession of such a magnificent 
car — theirs to command, theirs to take them 
where they willed, and theirs to defy distance, 
time, and railroads. 

Mrs. Collins was looking out of a second 
story window. 

An instant later, Victor, from his place on 
the rear cushion, shouted : 

‘‘ Good-bye, mother ! ” 

Have you all those warm wraps and the 
umbrella I told you to take? ” she called. 

Yes, mother ! ” 

'' And that bottle of beef tea, and your rain- 
coat? ” 

Yes, mother I ” 


Motor Car 


19 

And will you be sure to use the cough 
medicine in case you catch cold?^’ 

“ Yes, mother I 

“ Well, do be careful, Victor. And don’t 
fail to send a card home this afternoon.” 

Victor promised, his face glowing with an- 
ticipation. 

We are going to have a ripping time, 
mother ! ” he shouted. Hooray I Let her 
whizz, Somers I ” 


CHAPTER II 


THE FIRST LAP 

The crisp staccato notes of the motor sud- 
denly drowned the sound of his voice. From 
the exhaust poured a bluish haze of gasoline 
vapor. The car apparently became vibrant 
with life and energy. Then, as the rapid-fire 
roar quickly lessened to a low musical drone, 
Bob Somers threw in the clutch. 

In the midst of a chorus of good-byes, the 
motor car began to glide smoothly away, and, 
upon looking back, the boys saw the lady at 
the window waving her handkerchief. 

Oh, isnT this just stunning I ” cried Victor. 
“ Hit it up, Somers.^^ 

Row after row of residences seemed to be 
drawn swiftly toward them and sent slipping 
behind. At each street crossing Bob slowed 
up, allowing the boys momentary views of 
Lake Michigan, only a short distance away. 

The few vehicles and pedestrians about ap- 
peared as mere crawling things whenever the 
20 


Motor Car 


21 


high-powered car leaped forward in obedience 
to the summons of its master's hand. 

Victor Collins experienced a delightful sense 
of ease and comfort as he watched the passing 
show with all the zest and interest that nov- 
elty often brings. 

“ Go it, Somers, go it I '' he urged. Whoop 
it up like sixty I " 

Restraint and caution should ever be the 
chauffeur's watchword," drawled Dave. 

That's what I think, too," approved 
Charlie. 

In cities they always have so many laws 
to bother a chap," grumbled Tom. ‘‘ Why, 
when we were in Wyoming " 

Oh, forget it, son," interrupted Victor. 

This beats all your old cowboy business to 
pieces." 

The residential section of Michigan Avenue 
had been passed. The motor car was, now 
swinging along by the side of Grant Park. 
Out over the lake they could see that the 
stiff breeze was kicking up the water into 
choppy waves and tossing about several small 
boats whose sails cut crisply white against the 
background. The far-reaching stretch of 


22 


The Rambler Club’s 

water, in the early morning light, became 
lost in a scintillating haze which dazzled the 
eye. 

The clouds are piling up,^^ remarked Dave. 

I guess we’ll have some stormy weather 
soon.” 

A succession of views passed so rapidly that 
the eye could take in only their salient features. 
Almost before they realized it the boys were 
being carried across the Chicago River. One 
look showed them an insignificant tug strug- 
gling valiantly with a huge, clumsy barge, a 
myriad of masts, a kaleidoscopic effect of hulls, 
docks and buildings, with here and there 
clouds of smoke and steam. Then all was 
whirled behind them. 

'' What time shall we get to Kenosha, 
Somers?” demanded Victor. 

About one o’clock, if everything goes well,” 
answered Bob. 

He put on his goggles, for occasionally the 
breeze brought with it a shower of flying 
particles. 

“ Good I Then we can slip over to Uncle 
Ralph’s motor yacht. Did you speak, sir ? ” 

I did,” answered Tom, with dignity. I 


Motor Car 


23 

said it might be a 'good idea for the bunch to 
stop over night at Kenosha.’^ 

‘‘ They might stand for you that long/* 
grinned Victor. 

The question is : can we stand for it ? ** 
Maybe we*ll see you at Milwaukee/* broke 
in Charlie. “ Too bad, Vic, you*re not going 
to stick with us all the way. You*d never 
catch me going on any yacht.** 

‘‘Why not?** 

“ I can*t swim.** 

“ Well, Uncle Ralph wouldn*t expect you 
to swim. Anyway, you ought to be ashamed 
to admit it.** 

“ Bet you can*t, either.** 

“ Your remark is irrelevant, as the lawyers 
say,** laughed Victor. “ I never yet felt a bit 
nervous in the water.** 

“ Where did you ever paddle about, Td like 
to know ? ** 

“ Oh, in a tub.** 

“ Fellows, we*re coming to Lincoln Park, 
one of the finest in Chicago,** laughed Char- 
lie. 

“ Nothing like having your own sightsee- 
ing car,** observed Dave. 


24 


The Rambler Club’s 


I guess the people arouYid here think they 
are seeing sights,” giggled Victor. ‘‘With 
those glasses on, Somers, you look like the 
speed king himself. Just wait till I get my 
hands on the throttle — if there’s a mile of 
straight road in front I’ll drive her up to 
sixty.” 

“ Huh I This car has to go all the way 
to Wisconsin,” sniffed Tom. “ We don’t want 
to have to telegraph any scrap iron dealer to 
hurry out and shovel up the pieces — eh, 
Bob ? ” 

“ Eh, Bob I ” repeated Victor, “ eh. Bob I 
How many times a day do you get that off? 
The great chauffeur and his brave passenger, 
Clifton I Let Charlie take the helm. He’ll 
drive slowly enough to suit you.” 

Tom’s eyes gleamed ominously. 

Talking about speed ! Why, in Wyoming, 
where we didn’t have any old laws to think 
about ” 

“ Oh, why is Wyoming! ” chuckled Victor. 
“ What a state it must be to have no laws.” 

“ Oh ho, this park is a refreshing sight,” 
broke in Dave — “ a little oasis in the midst of 
mortar, brick and stone. Slow up a bit, BoK 


Motor Car 


25 

so that we may have a better chance to enjoy 
the contemplation of nature/^ 

You talk like a botany book, Brandon,” 
grunted Victor. See here, Somers ! ” 
Well?” 

“ Never better, thank you. Let me try my 
hand at driving? ” 

Victor’s tone indicated an expectation that 
his wishes would be acceded to without objec- 
tion. At home he had been so long accus- 
tomed to having his own way that submission 
to his imperious demands had come to be ex- 
pected as a matter of course. 

Charlie Blake looked alarmed. 

Going to do it. Bob? ” he asked. 

Of course he’s going to do it,” grinned 
Victor, satirically. Aren’t you, Bob? ” 

Not until we get eighty-six miles from 
nowhere,” Tom put in. 

** I hardly think so, Vic,” answered Bob, 
good-naturedly. 

Victor’s expression indicated his displeas- 
ure. 

All right then — I’ll let it go now ; but 
just wait till we get out in the open country,” 
he grumbled. 


26 The Rambler Club’s 

There's a coolness in the air," remarked 
Tom. 

He looked quizzically toward Victor. 

‘‘ A storm is brewing," said Dave, absent- 
mindedly. 

Presently the park was left behind. On 
and on sped the motor car. There was so 
much to see and so little time to see it in 
that the brain of each lad held only a con- 
fused impression of many buildings, of trees 
and grassy stretches, and shining patches of 
lake. 

What place is this we are coming to ? " 
cried Tom, at length. 

Evanston," answered Victor. 

Some of the citizens were mildly astonished 
to see a great touring car containing five lads 
whirling through the town. 

Hi, hi I catch on to the joy riders I " yelled 
a small boy. Where'd you get it ? " 

No time to answer questions, sonny," 
screeched Victor. This is the lightning ex- 
press, the speediest wagon in the state, with 
Somers, the slow-speed wizard, at the throttle. 
Whoop-la I " 

Evanston was quickly left behind. Then 


Motor Car 


27 


came a succession of small towns along the 
lake front. The sky was now almost entirely 
overcast. Near the horizon rested a mass of 
clouds of a murky, yellowish hue which 
seemed to impart to the distant water some of 
its own threatening aspect. 

At Waukegan the boys stopped for lunch. 

A curious look came over Victor Collins’ 
face as Tom, with an air of much importance, 
sprang into the chauffeur’s seat. 

“ Jehoshaphat I Get out of that ! ” he ex- 
claimed. You’re not going to chauf.” 

“ Of course I am I ” snapped Tom. 

Then it’s my turn next.” 

But you don’t know how.” 

What I ” scoffed Victor. Anybody can 
do it. How many lessons did it take before 
you learned how to blow the horn ? ” 

Tom, uttering a snort of indignation, threw 
in the clutch, for by this time the others were 
in their places. 

The car had traveled over a mile before 
Victor spoke again. 

Say, Somers ” — his tone was very mild 
and sweet — you’ll let me drive, won’t you — 
just a little way ? ” 


28 The Rambler Club’s 

“ A revolution is coming,” murmured 
Charlie. 

'' I’m afraid not, Victor,” answered Bob. 

It’s too risky.” 

‘‘ How about Clifton ? He hasn’t run into 
anything yet.” 

Tom took a course of instruction.” 

Come now, Somers, what are you afraid 
of?” Victor’s eyes were snapping. He 
leaned over and touched Dave on the shoul- 
der. See here, Brandon, say a word for me. 
I want to chauf.” 

It is not so written in the book of des- 
tiny,” laughed Dave. Experience and wis- 
dom teach us that. Experience is sometimes 
necessary before wisdom can be acquired.” 

Oh, bosh I ” 

Victor brought out the words with angry 
emphasis. There was nothing in Dave’s ex- 
pression to give him encouragement, and his 
eye caught a twitch of amusement on Tom 
Clifton’s lips. 

It acted upon his impetuous nature some- 
what after the fashion of the spark that ex- 
plodes the gasoline vapor. 

On the impulse of the moment, he seized 


Motor Car 


29 

Dave Brandon's cap and hurled it spitefully 
upon the road. 

“ That’s what you get for sassing me, you 
big, fat Indian,” he howled. Go and pick 
it up.” 

The stout lad stilled a roar of protest which 
began to pour from Tom’s lips. 

“ Never mind, fellows.” His smiling face 
showed no sign of ruffled feelings. “ I wanted 
a chance to stretch my legs. Thanks, Vic.” 

As the motor car came to a halt, he laid 
his hand on the door. 

Victor Collins looked at him curiously. 
Almost on the instant he felt a twinge of re- 
gret at his childish action. He heartily wished 
that Dave had flown into a rage. Then, after 
a snappy exchange of compliments — at which 
pastime he considered himself well able to 
hold his own — things might have quieted 
down without so much loss to his dignity. 

Dave’s unexpected calmness, however, made 
him feel uncomfortably small, so he did what 
he usually did when things failed to go in a 
way that suited him — began to sulk. 

Dave stretched his legs ” for a good five 
minutes. Then the motor car began to roll 


3° 


The Rambler Club’s 


forward again. Tom didn’t scorch exactly — 
he knew that Bob Somers’ watchful eye was 
upon him — but several times Charlie Blake’s 
nerves received severe jolts, as trees and tele- 
graph poles by the roadside seemed to be 
whirled by with bewildering rapidity. 

Kenosha, Wisconsin, fellows ! ” exclaimed 
Bob, at length, half rising from his seat. 

“Kenosha I ” echoed all but Victor. 

“ The first lap of our journey is done 1 
cried Dave. 


CHAPTER III 


THE ** FEAKLESS 

Leaving the motor car at a garage, the boys 
made their way to the harbor. Down by the 
river they found a great deal to attract their 
attention. Factories with tall chimneys sent 
columns of smoke whirling upward ; schooners, 
barges and a number of smaller craft were 
moored along the stream ; and these, together 
with picturesque buildings, big lumber sheds 
or great pilings presented so many pleasing 
combinations to the eye that the artistic soul 
of Dave was enraptured. 

The smell of fresh water was in the air, and 
along with it came a faint odor of things 
belonging to shipping. The gurgle and splash 
of lapping waves and the creaking of boats 
vainly tugging at their moorings formed a 
steady accompaniment to the occasional puff- 
ing of passing tugs or the hoarse blasts of 
whistles. 


31 


32 


The Rambler Club’s 

Close alongside a big lumber schooner the 
boys, who had taken turns in carrying Victor’s 
heavy luggage, finally discovered the motor 
yacht “ Fearless.” 

A big, burly man busy at some work on the 
wharf looked up as they approached. 

Captain Ralph Bunderley had been suc- 
cessively the master of a barge, a coastwise 
schooner and a windjammer on the Atlantic. 
Having been left a comfortable fortune by a 
relative, he finally retired from the sea, but, 
feeling that to get away from the sight of land 
occasionally was as necessary to him as water 
to a fish, he had built a motor yacht some 
sixty feet in length designed for speed, as well 
as to withstand the rough weather on the lake. 

Victor, still in a surly mood, felt consider- 
ably embarrassed, for Uncle Ralph, attired in 
a suit of faded blue overalls and a greasy cap, 
gave more the impression of being a man out 
of a job than one of the richest citizens in the 
community. 

The boy glanced slyly around to see if any 
of his companions were wearing suspicious 
grins, but, to his relief, they were too busily 
engaged in inspecting the graceful lines of the 


Motor Car 


33 

motor yacht to pay attention to the captain’s 
appearance. 

Uncle Ralph cordially shook hands. His 
blalf, hearty way caught the fancy of the 
crowd, and before long they were talking 
together like old acquaintances. 

“ There is certainly a lot of class to that 
cruiser, captain ! '' exclaimed Tom, in his gruff 
tones, and I’ll bet it can go some, too.^' 

Over twenty miles an hour,’’ answered 
Uncle Ralph, smilingly. We’ll go aboard 
now.” He raised his voice. Hey, you Phil 
Malone ! ” 

Like a jack-in-the-box, a face popped 
quickly to one of the cabin port-holes. 

That’s Phil,” explained the captain. “ My 
first mate, I call him — a bashful young chap, 
especially among strangers. Consider your- 
selves introduced.” 

The boys heard a few mumbling words. 
Then the face disappeared. 

The Fearless,” a raised deck cruiser with a 
rakish bow, painted a creamy white, and 
relieved here and there by touches of blue and 
gold, made a striking appearance against the 
background of restless water. Like a racer 


34 


The Rambler Club’s 


impatient for the start she strained and tugged 
at her cables, occasionally rolling slightly as 
heavier onslaughts of choppy waves gurgled 
and splashed against her hull. 

Before the crowd could set foot on deck Phil 
Malone appeared. He was tall and angular, 
with red hair, a long, gaunt face and deep-set 
eyes. He looked at his visitors with such 
a comical expression of astonishment that 
Victor, forgetting his ill-humor for the mo- 
ment, burst into a hearty laugh. 

You never expected to see a bunch of 
Indians like this, hey, Phil ? he asked. 

Naw — I — I sure didn^t,^’ agreed Phil, as 
he diffidently backed away. 

Here now, don^t you run off. Give us a 
song.'^ 

Let Phil alone, commanded Uncle Ralph. 

Singing isn’t his forte. He’s better at pol- 
ishing brass.” 

Clifton has an awful lot that needs atten- 
tion,” mumbled Victor. 

Oh, I say, fellows, this isn’t seeing the 
yacht,” broke in Bob. 

Let the inspection begin at once,” returned 
Captain Bunderley, with a smile. 


Motor Car 


35 

They followed him to the companionway 
and then down into the dining saloon. 

Standing in the cozy interior the boys with 
the exception of Victor voiced their enthusi- 
asm in words that brought forth chuckles of 
satisfaction from the old salt’s lips. 

Never did woodwork, or door-knobs, or fur- 
nishings appear more spotlessly clean than 
those revealed by the cold gray rays stream- 
ing through the open port-holes. 

These,” remarked Captain Bunderley — he 
indicated the ports — ‘‘are provided with heavy 
plate glass and can be so locked as to make 
them practically water-tight. With ordinary 
windows, after a heavy sea has been pounding 
against the boat for several hours, the cabin 
would probably be in a mess.” Walking 
across the floor, he opened a door. “ Let me 
introduce you to the engine room and galley.” 

“Phil’s the galley-slave,” confided Victor, 
in a loud whisper. 

“ Who’s the engineer, captain ? ” asked 
Bob. 

“ Jack Stubbs, a sailor I had with me on 
many a sea voyage. Martin Ricks is the 
helmsman.” 


36 The Rambler Club’s 

Now, uncle, please show the bunch your 
stateroom,^^ put in Victor. 

The captain led them to a passageway 
abaft the engine room, presently stepping 
into a compartment finished in enamel 
white. 

“ This is enough to make even me feel like 
becoming a skipper,’^ commented Dave. 

If only it weren’t so dreadfully danger- 
ous,” ventured Charlie Blake. 

Certainly would be with him as skip- 
per,” piped Victor. 

Out in the open air again the crowd found 
an awning extending from the stern to a point 
where the raised deck began. Dave expressed 
the opinion that it must be very delightful to 
sit there on a pleasant day, with the water 
sparkling in the sunlight and a gentle breeze 
sighing past. 

“I guess some howling blasts would make 
you the sigher, instead,” laughed Victor. 

‘‘ Say, Bob I ” 

Tom Clifton’s voice cut sharply into the 
conversation. 

‘‘ Let’s hear it, Tom.” 

I’ve been thinking about that ball nine 


Motor Car 


37 

of ours. Kirk Talbot had an awful nerve 
to ” 

Ha, ha ! grinned Victor. “ Can't you 
get that off your mind, Clifton ? " 

Tom tossed his head. 

“ I don't want to," he snapped. Besides, 
I've got an idea, and a mighty good one. I'll 
tell you all about it to-night." 

“ Don't hurry yourself. We can wait." 
Victor nudged Charlie sharply in the ribs. 
‘‘ Say, Blakelets, don't you wish you were 
going along with us on the ' Fearless ' to-mor- 
row ? " 

Charlie was one of those lads who possess 
a certain ill-defined dread of the water. At 
almost every roll of the deck rather shivery 
feelings coursed along his spine. 

Gracious I I don't see why in the world 
Victor wants to go to Milwaukee by boat," he 
thought, nervously. He took a long, earnest 
look at the sky, then exclaimed, with consid- 
erable emphasis : 

No, Vic, I most certainly do not I " 


CHAPTER IV 


THE CIRCUS 

The Ramblers and Charlie Blake secured 
quarters at one of Kenosha’s principal hotels. 
As Captain Bunderley had some business to 
attend to, Victor decided to remain with them 
until the hour for turning in. 

Immediately after supper the crowd gathered 
in Bob Somers’ room. 

Dave Brandon, the poet and historian of 
the club, was soon reclining with his accus- 
tomed ease at the window. The dark, gloomy 
night strangely stirred his imagination. 
Vague inspirations floated through his brain. 
He thought of the lonely lake as the subject 
for a poem ; he cudgeled his brain to seize 
and hold fast the elusive words which con- 
stantly flitted before his mental vision. 

Presently Dave sat up. A walk in the open 
air, he decided, might aid him in cornering 
this near-inspiration. 

Bob Somers was busy writing a letter ; Vic- 
38 


Motor Car 


39 

tor and Charlie were talking, while Tom at a 
table all by himself kept scribbling on sheet 
after sheet of paper. Tom’s face wore a tremen- 
dous frown, as though his work were of a deep 
and absorbing nature. 

Hello I Owing to the increased demand 
for paper the price must soon advance,” 
chirped Victor, suddenly. What’s up ? ” 
You mean what’s going down,” laughed 
Blake. 

Tom seemed to hesitate. He glanced sternly 
toward Victor, then exclaimed : 

“ This is what I was going to tell you about. 
I’m getting up a set of by-laws for our new 
Athletic Association.” 

The room was immediately in an uproar. 
Dave, fearful that all his ideas might van- 
ish, jumped up hastily and walked to the 
door. 

‘‘ I’ll be back soon. Bob ! ” he called, with a 
laugh. 

Out in the corridor, Tom’s voice, already 
raised in a hot argument with Victor, still 
reached him. In another moment he was 
down-stairs and on the street. 

A brisk walk in the cool air promised to 


40 


The Rambler Club’s 


aid Dave’s faculties, as he had hoped. Al- 
ready the vague phrases in his mind were be- 
ginning to shape themselves into definite 
words. 

Here and there a swinging sign-board 
mingled a series of dismal creaking notes 
with the crisp moaning of a gusty breeze. 
Autumn leaves, ruthlessly torn from their 
resting places on the branches, occasionally 
whirled helter-skelter through the air, to 
dance merrily along the streets. Trails of 
dust, banging shutters, or flickering lights 
were all tributes to the tyranny of the never- 
ceasing currents. 

Ten minutes later, in a sheltered position 
near an electric light, Dave was writing 
stanzas at record speed. It was really delight- 
ful — the way in which that near-inspiration 
had been Anally conquered. 

Suddenly a voice broke in upon him. 

Say, Brandon, owing to the unprecedented 
demand for paper in Kenosha the mills will 
be compelled to work overtime.” 

Dave turned abruptly. Victor Collins’ 
dapper little flgure was standing close beside 
him. 


Motor Car 


4 > 

“ Gracious ; you here ! ” cried the writer, in 
astonishment. 

No ; I^m back there, still kidding the 
by-law committee,'^ chuckled Victor. '‘Seri- 
ously, though, I finished him in about half a 
minute and skipped after you. What have 
you got there ? 

“ Almost a poem,^^ confessed Dave. 

“ Read it,’^ commanded Victor, imperiously. 

“ Never ! ” laughed Dave. 

Victor argued and coaxed. He even pre- 
pared to land a “ good one in the neighbor- 
hood of the ribs ; his little fists, tightly 
clenched, gyrated fiercely. But Dave^s clever 
footwork more than balanced Victor^s speed. 

“ All right, smarty,’^ grumbled the boy. 
“ Bet it's awful piffle, anyway.” 

“ Come along, Vic,” laughed Dave, as he 
started off. 

Victor Collins' wishes were not often so dis- 
regarded as they had been during that day. 
It touched his pride. 

“ If I don't find a way to make these fine 
chaps drop down a peg or two before to-mor- 
row I'll be much surprised,” he muttered 
grimly to himself. 


42 


The Rambler Club’s 


Thereupon Victor set his thoughts briskly 
to work in an effort to find a scheme for get- 
ting square. 

Down one street, or out another, the two 
wandered, often in silence, for each had many 
thoughts to engage his attention, though 
on widely divergent subjects. The busier, 
brightly-lighted sections began to be slowly 
left behind. Electric cars no longer whizzed 
past them. 

Dave and Victor finally found themselves 
on a wide, tree-lined avenue. 

What a delightful retreat,^^ murmured 
Dave. “ Sitting on a nice, comfortable porch 
I could get ideas for a dozen — eh ? 

Victor had clutched his arm. 

“ Say, look straight ahead, Brandon I ” he 
cried. 

I declare, I see lights, and more lights I ’’ 
exclaimed Dave. 

The pair began to stare earnestly toward a 
number of starlike points which were moving 
about in a most erratic fashion. 

‘‘ What in the mischief are they ? asked 
Victor. “ Think some of the stars have tum- 
bled poetically down through the clouds ? 


Motor Car 


43 

“ Give it up,” laughed Dave. “ We’ll know 
before the night is over/’ 

Victor, whose curiosity was highly excited, 
now easily kept ahead of his taller companion. 
But the lights had entirely disappeared, leav- 
ing the street to end apparently in a void of 
blackness. 

‘‘Looks like a jumping off place,” ex- 
claimed Victor. “ Hurry up, Brandon.” 

They began to walk rapidly, soon covering 
a number of blocks. 

Suddenly the cluster of lights flashed irtto 
view once more. Five minutes later they 
heard a series of dull thuds, as of hammering, 
accompanied at intervals by a low rumbling 
of wagon wheels. When an open lot which 
faced the street was reached Dave and his 
companion saw a number of flaming torches 
that sent weird streaks of yellow over the 
ground, lighting up in their course groups 
of men busily engaged with sledge-hammers. 

Dave Brandon’s eyes were instantly at- 
tracted toward a huge bill-board which rose 
from amidst a tangle of weeds and grasses. 
The rays from a gas lamp cast a flickering 
glow over its multi-colored surface. 


44 


The Rambler Club’s 


Look, Vic,’^ he exclaimed, with a laugh. 

The mystery is solved.” 

And Victor, whose eyes were bright with 
interest, read in letters that almost took in 
the entire length of the board : 

Ollie Spudger’s Great Combined Peerless 
Circus and Menagerie.” 

By George — a circus ! Isn’t this jolly 
good luck, Brandon ? ” he cried, enthusias- 
tically. 


CHAPTER V 


GEORGY, THE GIANT 

Victor Collins had not yet arrived at an 
age when a circus loses its power to thrill the 
heart with joy. Each gilded chariot, each 
gaudy menagerie wagon or gorgeous trapping 
still awoke within his breast a responsive 
chord. 

They^re driving in stakes, Brandon,” he 
exclaimed. See — there^s a wagon — a four- 
horser, and lots of others back. We’re just 
in time to watch ’em put up the tent.” 

Over on the lot an odor of rank weeds and 
grasses filled the air. It was all very black 
and forbidding, unpleasantly suggestive of 
treacherous pitfalls or deep, stagnant pools 
of water, save where the rays of flaring light 
streamed through the gloom. 

Heavy wagons drawn by four horses rum- 
bled their way across the bumpy, uneven field, 
occasionally becoming stuck in the yielding 
45 


The Rambler Club’s 


46 

turf, whereupon the yells of drivers and crack- 
ing of whips came sharply to their ears. 

Working like the dickens, aren’t they ? ” 
remarked Victor. Let’s skip around a bit.” 

The two, steering a course around various 
obstructions, made their way toward the busy 
scene. Soon they caught a glimpse of a faint 
grayish mass of canvas spread out over the 
ground, while towering aloft like the masts 
of a ship were a number of poles. 

That’s the big top, or main tent,” said 
Dave. 

Heads up there — look out I ” 

Above the sound of the jolting and creak- 
ing of a big red wagon and crisp jingle of 
harness came the deep-throated warning. The 
leaders of a four-horse team swerved sharply 
around. 

“ Over here, you for the flying squadron,” 
some one hailed from the distance. 

Flying squadron I What in thunder is 
that?” cried Victor, wonderingly. 

The commissary department,” answered 
Dave. In all well-regulated shows that is 
attended to first. Guess this wagon is full of 
stuff they’ll need in a hurry for the mess tent.” 


Motor Car 


47 


A straggling procession, mainly of boys, 
soon began to arrive ; the lonely, dismal lot 
was fast becoming transformed into a scene 
of great bustle and activity. More torches 
were flaring, and the echoing thuds of the 
sledges increased in force and number. A 
bright glare from a calcium light soon 
streamed over the field. 

A force of workers with pick and shovel 
were leveling the ground, while still others 
spread thick layers of straw over tracts where 
recent rains had formed puddles of consider- 
able size. 

Presently a murmuring chorus from the 
crowds of excited children burst into a loud 
hubbub of joyous shouts. 

'' Oh, look I ’’ laughed Victor, attracted by 
the commotion. 

Some distance ahead, amid the wagons, a 
huge form was looming up, now dim and 
scarcely seen in the gloom, then brought 
sharply into relief by the flaring lights. 

“ Hurray, here^s the elephant, as I live,” 
shouted Victor. Gee, Brandon — what was 
that ? Didn't you hear something ? ” 

The boys were threading a dark, gloomy 


48 The Rambler Club’s 

passage between two great wagons, now horse- 
less, their tarpaulin-covered tops seeming to 
tower to a great height above them. A 
strange sound, suggestive of a deep sigh, had 
cut into Victor’s sentence, and when it came a 
second time the two looked about them with 
interest. 

They saw several bales of hay, showing 
dimly against the field, another deserted 
wagon, and an indistinct figure. 

Hello I ” exclaimed Victor. 

As he spoke the form began to rise, and, to 
their utter astonishment, continued to rise 
until it stood high above the bales, and so 
high that both uttered an exclamation. 

Great Scott I ” breathed Victor. “ Why — 
why ” 

'‘ Say, who are you? ” 

A shrill childish treble came from the tower- 
ing figure, which immediately began to move 
around the barricade of bales toward them. 
The boys watched him with breathless interest. 

" Say, who are you ? ” 

They craned their necks to look up at the 
face that gazed into theirs, but the obscurity 
was so great that neither could determine the 


Motor Car 


49 


age, the character, or the appearance of the 
singularly tall being whose voice resembled 
that of a fourteen-year-old boy. 

I say — what’s the matter? Who are you, 
anyway ? ” 

The third inquiry came in petulant, piping 
tones. 

“ If we could find a step-ladder,” began 
Victor, struggling unsuccessfully to repress 
his mirth, “ it ” 

That’s always the way. I’m the most 
miserable chap in the whole world.” 

Victor lighted a match, and, shielding the 
fluttering flame in the hollow of his hand, 
deliberately directed the rays into the face of 
the giant. They saw a small, well-shaped and 
extremely boyish head crowned with dark 
brown hair. 

‘‘ Well, now, I hope you are satisfled.” 
The shrill treble held a note of resignation. 

Goodness gracious I How old are you ? ” 
demanded Victor. 

Fifteen. And I’m the most miserable 
chap in the ” 

'' Why — what’s the matter ? ” inquired 
Dave. 


The Rambler Club’s 


50 

You’d better ask me what isn’t the 
matter,” answered the young giant, with a 
long, deep sigh. Come on — sit down. I 
do so want to talk to somebody before Peter 
Whiffin gets here.” 

Peter Whiffin I Who’s he ? ” 

“ General manager of Ollie Spudger’s Great 
Combined Peerless Circus and Menagerie. 
He doesn’t allow me to talk to people. You 
see ” — the giant, leading the way, paused 
until he had settled himself on a bale of hay, 
where, after a great deal of difficulty, he man- 
aged to dispose of his long legs in a comfort- 
able fashion — “ well, it’s this way,” he went 
on, dolefully : ‘‘ Peter Whiffin doesn’t believe 
in giving anything for nothing. I belong to 
the show — see ? People must pay to look at 
the giant ; so I’m smuggled around in the 
dark. It’s awful. Mustn’t talk to strangers ; 
mustn’t do this, or that. An’ when anybody 
does see me outside the tents I’m followed an’ 
stared at, an’ made fun of. Oh, but I’m so 

sick of it I An’, do you know ” 

The young giant’s wailing notes ceased, and 
he peered eagerly around. 

Well ? ” questioned Dave. 


Motor Car 


5 » 


** I’m still growing.” 

Goodness; gracious ! ” 

‘‘ Yes ; it’s a fact — an’ most seven feet now.” 
The giant seemed almost on the verge of 
blubbering. Then, with an effort, he con- 
trolled his voice. “ But say, who are you ? ” 
One member of the Rambler Club, and 
one near-member,” grinned Victor. 

** There it goes again — always the same ; 
every one has to guy me. Oh, I’m the most 
miserable chap in the whole ” 

“ Avast there, my hearty ! ” laughed Dave. 

I’ll explain.” And he did, while the giant 
listened with rapt attention. 

Oh, if I could only do something like 
that, too,” he murmured, when Dave had con- 
cluded. What a dandy lot of fun you 
fellows are going to have. But it’s no use ! ” 

“ Hey, Georgy — oh, Georgy I Where in 
thunder are you ? ” 

“ There’s Peter Whiffin.” The giant raised 
his voice. Over here, Mr. Whiffin.” 

The circus manager, scarcely seen in the 
gloom, and coming from the direction of the 
lights, increased his pace, scrambling around 
obstructions, and giving vent to his displeasure 


52 


The Rambler Club’s 


at the weeds and inequality of the ground by 
emphatic exclamations. 

‘‘Well, what^s all this?^' 

Peter Whiffin had a querulous voice and a 
manner which went singularly well with it. 
He was a small man, and Victor’s method of 
throwing light on the subject by means of a 
match immediately disclosed sharp features, a 
pair of shifting gray eyes, a face lined with 
hollows and wrinkles, and a yellow moustache 
which drooped despondently at the corners. 

“Well, blow me — if you ain’t ’bout the 
coolest I ever see I ” exclaimed Peter Whiffin, 
when the fluttering flame had vanished. 
“ You’ve got your nerve with you, hey ? ” 

“ Always carry plenty of it in stock,” said 
Victor, calmly. 

“ See here, Georgy, didn’t I tell you not to 
gab with every stranger that comes along ? ” 
“I have to talk to some one, Mr. Whiffin ; 
I’m so miserable.” 

“ Well, well ! Says he is miserable ! Did 
you ever hear the like o’ it I ” The manager’s 
tones bespoke the deepest disgust. “ Why, 
ain’t he makin’ more money in a week than 
most people in a month ? Well, well I ” 


Motor Car 


53 

Mr. Peter Whiffin^s emotions seemed to rise 
to such a point as to almost choke his utter- 
ances. He strode to and fro for a moment, 
then exclaimed : 

“ Vwe a good mind to fetch you one right in 
the ribs. It’s ingratitood — it’s worse. An’ 
his pap a-gittin’ paid every week as reg’lar as 
the clock ticks I I’ll plunk you for that, I 
will.” 

But I don’t want to get plunked,” wailed 
the giant, with a catch in his voice. 

“ Well, then, don’t git off no more sich 
nonsense. Miserable, indeed ! That ’ud be 
somethink for your pap to hear ’bout, eh? 
Ain’t there no thanks in that nature o’ 
yourn ? ” 

What have I to be thankful for, Mr. 
Whiffin ? If I was only like these boys here 
I’d give anything in the world.” 

Peter Whiffin snorted with indignation. 
He did more. Seizing the giant roughly by 
the arm, he commanded him to move, and 
move fast, under penalty of receiving an 
assorted number of hooks, straight lefts, and 
right uppercuts, and accompanied his remarks 
with an exhibition of these same blows, all 


54 


The Rambler Club’s 


coming perilously near the person of the com- 
plaining giant. 

“ If this here chatter ain^t a bit more’n the 
limit/^ he growled. “ An^ me not knowin^ 
what I'm a-goin' to do for a barker to-mor- 
row I 

What's the matter with Jack Gray ? " 
asked George, forgetting his troubles for an 
instant. 

“ He's went an' took sich a cold that his 
voice sounds like a frog croakin' ; that’s what's 
the matter. If I ain't in a mess for a spieler 
my name ain't Whiffin. I can't do it meself; 
an’ there ain’t nobody worth shucks in the 
hull shootin' match." 

The voice of the unhappy manager gradually 
grew faint in the distance, then, presently, 
became lost altogether amidst the medley of 
noises that arose on all sides. 

Say, Brandon, think of that poor little 
giant standing for all of Peter Whiffin's fresh 
talk," said Victor, disgustedly. Why, if he'd 
just start falling " 

And if Peter got caught beneath him it 
would make a mighty sad story," grinned 
Dave. 


Motor Car 


55 


The two walked out beyond the grim 
shadows of the wagons, directing their course 
toward the light and activity beyond. Already 
the canvas of the “ big top was looming high 
in the air, a dim, shapeless patch of ghostly 
white. The rumble of vehicles had given 
place to the clink and rattle of harness, as 
teams were unhitched and driven across the 
lots. 

A crowd of shouting children surrounded 
three elephants, while others flocked around 
closed cages, uttering comments which re- 
vealed their curiosity regarding the strange 
and savage inmates. Boys carrying backets 
of water passed and repassed, straining their 
little arms to an alarming extent, but feeling 
sure that they were having the time of their 
lives. 

Dave and his companion soon found them- 
selves in the thick of the fray watching a pair 
of sturdy horses hitched to the end of a long 
rope which led to a block and tackle. 

Crack I The driver's whip echoed sharply. 
Away they went. The center of the big top 
was drawn slowly up to its highest point on 
the middle pole, and, within a short time, the 


The Rambler Club’s 


56 

limp canvas began to straighten and assume 
the form of a circus tent. 

Jolly well done, that,” commented Dave. 

Spudger^s Great Combined Peerless Circus 
and Menagerie looks like a winner to me. 
And the mess tent is all up, too.” 

They moved off toward it, each occasionally 
halted by piles of rubbish. Twice Victor put 
his foot into an unseen hole, then cracked his 
shin against a piece of board. 

‘‘ Makes a pleasant variety, doesnT it ? ” said 
Dave, as he heard his companion’s howl of 
disapproval. 

“ Pleasant ? ” snapped Victor. It’s a won- 
der something hasn’t risen up off the ground 
and broken my legs. Are we about to fall 
into the town ash-pit, or what? ” 

We may escape such a fate as that.” 

Victor laughed. 

‘'Well, Brandon,” he said, “if it hadn’t 
been for your encouragement to the paper in- 
dustry my ankle wouldn’t be aching like the 
dickens.” 

“ Or we shouldn’t have seen the circus, 
either,” returned Dave, “ which shows that 
some good has come from my poems, after all.’^ 


Motor Car 


57 


At the mess tent they found preparations 
for feeding the workers going on briskly. But 
their attention became speedily attracted 
toward several tents in which the horses were 
being stabled. 

“ Makes me think of Wyoming and old 
broncho days/^ went on Dave, softly. Guess 
I won’t do any more riding, though, for a 
mighty long time.” 

Oh, fade away with such boasting,” said 
Victor. “ Nothing could make me believe 
that you ever rode a broncho.” 

Why, I ” 

Dave didn’t get far with his protest. 

“ Fade ! ” roared Victor. And the stout 
boy concluded to abide by the command. 

It was not until half an hour later that the 
two turned away from the noise and chaotic 
confusion in which Spudger’s Great Combined 
Peerless Circus and Menagerie was still in- 
volved. 

I shouldn’t mind seeing the show,” re- 
marked Victor, but at ten o’clock sharp to- 
morrow morning Uncle Ralph’s yacht pulls 
out.” 

And our motor car will leave about two 


58 The Rambler Club’s 

p. M.,” said Dave. “So, unless something 
happens mighty soon, the adventures of the 
Rambler Club in this part of the country will 
add only a few dozen pages to my history. 


CHAPTER VI 


JOE KODGERS 

Early on the following morning the crowd 
was sitting in Bob Somers’ room at the hotel. 
Tom Clifton, at first just mildly vexed, threat- 
ened to become real angry. Victor’s saucy 
face and ready tongue promised, before very 
long, to call down upon his head a storm of 
wrath from the future physician. 

“ I tell you these by-laws and Bob Somers’ 
ball nine will make a fine stir among the 
chaps at the Kingswood High,” he snapped, 
sternly. 

'' Read your old by-laws,” challenged Vic- 
tor, with an aggravating grin. 

“ I’ll not read ’em,” Tom flung back in icy 
tones. 

It’s all a pipe dream. Don’t believe the 
club will ever be formed, anyway.” 

Then don’t ! ” 

All right — I won’t ! ” 

But I’ll bet that before you’re three-six- 
69 


6o 


The Rambler Club’s 


teenths of an inch taller, just the same, we^l 
have played half a dozen games/^ 

Oh my, oh my ! Is that so ? ” jeered Vic- 
tor. 

“ Yes, it is so ! ” 

“ Come, come, boys,’^ interposed Dave, 
smilingly. ** No joking, now. Remember to- 
day is the day when our paths will be separ- 
ated by a waste of water. 

“ A little of it sprinkled on that flowery 
remark wouldn’t be wasted,” chirruped Vic- 
tor. “ See here, Clifton ! ” 

‘‘ Well?” 

Going out with us now ? ” 

“ No ! I haven’t finished yet. You chaps 
skip along. But don’t forget to come back in 
time.” 

Victor was ready with a parting shot. 

'‘Just suppose I should shanghai the whole 
bunch on board the ‘ Fearless ’ and take ’em 
clean to Milwaukee ? ” 

" That’s the way I’d expect them to go, un- 
less they got all smeared up with cylinder 
oil,” growled Tom. 

"Listen to the smart Aleck I I mean, 
wouldn’t you be some scared ? ” 


Motor Car 


6i 


Hey? Tom^s usually gruff voice took on 
an odd note of shrillness. ‘‘ Hey ? ” he re- 
peated, with a rising inflection. Scared of 
what? ** 

Why, to take that big car out alone.” 

Tom’s forbearance was not proof against 
such insinuations. 

Well, I should rather say not I ” he ex- 
claimed, hotly. “ I’d drive from Kenosha to 
Kingswood without the quiver of an eye.” 

Hear — hear ! — A new way to propel a 
motorcar just discovered by Chauffeur Clifton : 
no clutch ; no gasoline required ; ^ without 
the quiver of an eye ’ runs a car three hun- 
dred miles.” 

“ Oh, you’re mighty brilliant,” snapped 
Tom. 

“ Then don’t try to light on me. Are you 
going to be a fiopper, Clifton ? ” 

A fiopper ! What in the mischief is that ? ” 

Well, ' it’s just like this ” Victor 

grinned in his most irritating fashion. If 
the boys shouldn’t happen to turn up you’ll 
know they’ve gone to Milwaukee with me — 

see? Now, to flop would mean that ” 

I hadn’t the nerve to take a flyer alone, I 


62 


The Rambler Club’s 

suppose ? ” supplemented Tom. For an in- 
stant he scowled almost savagely. Then, 
catching a wink from Dave Brandon, the 
expression of his face suddenly softened. He 
gave a quiet laugh. “ Can’t string me, lad ; 
oh no I ” 

An approving nod from the historian re- 
warded this remark. 

Hope it doesn’t rain,” observed Bob, care- 
lessly. 

The boys glanced through the window- 
panes at an even gray expanse of cloud against 
which the opposite buildings cut sharply. 

Looks mighty threatening,” admitted 
Dave. Isn’t any worse than yesterday, 
though.” 

‘‘ Come, ahead, fellows. We’ll start out, 
anyway,” cried Bob. So-long, Tom. Good 
luck I ” 

Say, you Indians, he’s the easiest chap to 
jolly I ever came across.” 

Victor opened the conversation in this 
agreeable style the moment the four had 
stepped into the street. 

‘‘ You’d better leave Tom alone,” cautioned 
Bob. 


Motor Car 


63 

He might take the law into his own 
hands/^ drawled Dave. He smiled whimsi- 
cally. “ When Tom gets started 

It must be something awful/^ finished 
Victor, with a gurgle of mirth. 

“Clifton's a mighty fine chap, Vic," de- 
clared Charlie, reprovingly. “ Wait till you 
know him a bit better. Where away. Bob ? " 
“ It's Spudger's Great Combined Peerless 
Circus and Menagerie for me." Victor spoke 
in tones which admitted of no argument. He 
poked Dave playfully in the ribs. “ How 
about it. Brownie ? " 

The historian grinned complacently. 

“ I'm willing. What do you say, fellows ? " 
“ Well, I wanted to take another look at 
Captain Bunderley's yacht," answered Bob, 
slowly. “Still " 

“ Run along, then," grinned Victor. “ Bran- 
don's on my side. Where do you stand, Blake- 
lets? Don't hesitate. He who hesitates is 
lost." 

“ No one ever could be in a nice little place 
like Kenosha," said Charlie, with a faint smile. 

“ Very good — that is for you. Which is it 
— circus or boat ? " 


64 The Rambler Club’s 

The grind had long since outgrown such 
amusements as the circus. Thoughts of the 
sawdust arena conjured up before his mental 
vision nothing but frivolity and foolishness, 
so a prompt, I'm with Bob, Vic," answered 
the query of the lawyer’s son. 

My name isn’t Bob Vic,’’ smiled Victor. 

The smile presently grew into a laugh of 
such proportions that he began to slap his 
knees in the paroxysm of mirth. 

Well ? ’’ demanded Bob, somewhat aston- 
ished. 

“ For goodness’ sake, what is the matter 
now ? ’’ asked Charlie. “ You’re the funniest 
chap I ever saw. Cut it out. People are 
looking.’’ 

“ Let ’em look,’’ gurgled Victor. “ Some- 
thing rich just struck me. Ha, ha I Maybe 
Brandon could get a job as clown. Ha, ha I 
Wouldn’t that round face of his look swell 
touched up with a little powder and paint, 
eh? He could read some of those famous 
poems, too I ’’ 

I’ll give the matter careful consideration,’’ 
said Dave, good-naturedly. “ And you might 
try for the position of animal tamer.’’ 


Motor Car 


65 

I^m an Indian tamer, now,^’ piped Victor. 
He seized Dave’s arm, jerking him around. 
“ You and I are going this way. Brownie. 
So-long, Boblets. In about an hour we’ll 
meet you and Blakelets at the wharf.” 

“ All right,” laughed Bob. '' I guess you’ll 
find us swapping land tales for the sea tales of 
Captain Bunderley. So-long.” 

Victor’s delicate fingers closed tightly 
around Dave’s wrist. 

Come ahead fast,” he ordered, imperiously. 
‘‘ Must be an awful lot to see around that show.’^ 

In a short time the two turned a corner 
where they came in sight, far ahead, of a 
group of dull gray tents and tarpaulin-covered 
wagons. 

On the lot the two boys found, despite the 
early hour, a scene of great activity. Stock 
was being watered or fed, while performers 
and other employees crowded the men’s tent. 
Huge wagons cast blurred shadows over the 
ground. One lone chariot, left outside to 
whet the appetite of the curious, stood before 
the main entrance. Its gilt ornamentation, 
of wondrous curves and twists, framed a 
painting in which the artist had allowed his 


66 


The Rambler Club’s 


fervid imagination fall sway. A hunter, in 
the African wilds, lay in the midst of tall, 
tangled grass with the paws of a gigantic lion 
planted on his breast. The animal’s mouth, 
astonishingly wide open, revealed a row of 
glistening teeth. 

‘‘ That artist was certainly great on the 
dental work,” pronounced Victor. 

To another school of art, according to Dave, 
belonged several huge canvases which flanked 
the main entrance. These were painted with 
a bolder, broader touch, and represented 
“ Adolphus,” the world-renowned boy giant, 
“ Zingar,” the celebrated dwarf, “ Monsieur Or- 
mund de Sylveste,” wizard of bareback riders, 
in his speed-defying and world-stupefying ex- 
hibition, ^‘Tobanus,” the apparently jointless 
wonder, a contortionist and sword swallower, 
and, lastly, Colossus,” Titan,” and Nero,” 
the three great African elephants whose stupen- 
dous feats had amazed the whole civilized 
world. 

“ Some show, this,” laughed Victor, his eyes 
roaming over the scene with great interest. 

They crossed the lot, peeped into the mess 
tent, then wandered from place to place, some- 


Motor Car 


67 

times walking in the shadow of monster 
wagons or long trucks whose heavy wheels 
were often sunk deep in the turf. 

Looks as if Spudger's was here for life/^ 
commented Victor. 

“ And yet the circus will probably leave 
to-night/^ said Dave. “ A strenuous life, 
indeed — positively makes me weary even to 
think of it. Oh hoi Come on, Vic.^^ 

A nice, comfortable-looking stump a few 
yards away had attracted the historian's atten- 
tion. Its call was altogether too strong to be 
resisted. Unheeding the loud expostulations 
of Victor, he walked over, and, with a sigh of. 
satisfaction, seated himself upon it. 

** A fine place to get a good perspective of 
the show, Vic,’^ he exclaimed. Td like to 
make a sketch. 

It won^t be done while I^m here,^^ said 
Victor, in positive tones ; unless,” he added, 
mischievously, “ you can work while your 
neck is being tickled with a blade of grass.” 

Tyrant I ” laughed Dave. He raised his 
finger warningly. I give notice, however : 
no power can budge me for at least five 
minutes.” 


68 


The Rambler Club’s 


Victor looked displeased. 

“ That's a challenge. We'll see about it," 
he snapped. 

The lad immediately made an attempt to 
convince Dave that his opinion on the subject 
was an entirely mistaken one. But all his 
pushing and tugging merely resulted in Victor 
making himself quite hot and uncomfortable. 

It annoyed him very much indeed. 

A second and more strenuous effort to dis- 
lodge the stout boy brought forth a mild 
protest. 

“ Quit it ! " commanded Dave. 

Humph ; I don't have to I " 

The next instant Victor found his wrists 
being held in a grip of steel. 

Let go, Brandon ; let go ! " he stormed. 
“ I'll punch your head if you don't." 

“ Promise to stop, Vic? " 

“ No ; I'll promise nothing, you big Indian, 
you large spot in the landscape I Let go I " 

‘‘ Only when I have your word, Vic." 

Victor struggled furiously to free himself. 

How dare you grab me like that, Bran- 
don?" he howled. “ Ouch I It hurts like 
fun. Gee, if I don't get square with you for 


Motor Car 


69 

this I never saw a senator — and my father’s 
best friend’s a senator I ” 

“ Hello, Jumbo, what’s up ? ” 

Tliis salutation, uttered in very loud tones, 
put a stop to further hostilities. 

Both instantly turned. 

A lad — and a very odd-looking lad indeed 
— had just stepped from behind a wagon and 
was surveying them with a curious mixture 
of amusement and surprise. He appeared to 
be about fifteen years of age. His round, 
chubby face was liberally besprinkled with 
freckles ; a mop of thick yellowish hair, sup- 
porting a dilapidated cap, straggled across a 
broad forehead, the wind occasionally blowing 
it in his eyes. 

Dave found it difficult to repress a laugh. 

Looks like a real little character,” he said, 
softly, to himself. 

^‘Hello, Jumbo, what’s up?” repeated the boy. 

He shuffied forward, his movements being 
somewhat impeded by a huge bucket of water 
in one hand and a broom in the other. 

<< Say — if ye’re abusin’ that little kid I won’t 
Stan’ for it. Do you get me ? ” he exclaimed. 

Victor, already angry, bristled up. 


70 


The Rambler Club’s 


Why, we were only fooling, you silly 

duffer,^’ he retorted ; and 

“ Good-morning I put in Dave, politely. 

Mornin^ I Weren’t no scrap, then? Say, 
Jumbo, you’re too late; Whiffin’s hired a fat 
man a’ready. You lookin’ for a job, Buster ? ” 
Victor swelled up with hot indignation. To 
be addressed in such slighting terms by a boy 
whose rough attire and general appearance 
indicated a very low status in society was 
more than his nature could stand. 

“ Get away from here, boy,” he snapped. 
“ We didn’t say anything to you.” 

The freckle-faced lad’s mouth flew open. 
He set down broom and bucket. 

Well, by gum, I said somethin’ to you.” 

And you needn’t say any more. Go on 
about your business.” 

If yer wasn’t so small I’d fetch you a clip 
for that.” 

Victor’s anger rose to the boiling point. 

Chase him away, you Indian I ” he shouted 
to Dave. See here. Freckles, my father is 
one of the biggest lawyers in Chicago.” 

“ I wouldn’t keer if he owned a whole side- 
show, an’ ” 



ARE YOU WORKING FOR THE CIRCUS ?” 


/ 


Motor Car 


7 ‘ 


Come, come I interposed Dave. This 
wonT do.'^ A touch of authority in his tone 
stopped a hot reply from Victor. “ Are you 
working for the circus ? — Yes ? Well, what is 
your name ? ” 

Me name is Mister Joe Rodgers.’^ 

This answer, accompanied by an expansive 
grin and a wink, to Victor’s utter astonishment 
and disgust, brought forth a low chuckling 
laugh from the stout boy. 

“ Come on, Brandon,” urged Victor, stiffly. 

You’re keeping the water-carrier from his 
job.” 

^‘Say, ain’t them clothes o’ hisn somethin’ 
fine? Bet he never did a lick o’ real work in 
his life. D’ye know what a pay envelope 
looks like, bub ? ” 

Victor brandished his small white fists furi- 
ously and dashed in front of the circus boy. 
But Dave, quickly springing between the two, 
prevented actual hostilities. 

“ Cut it out, Victor,” he said, sternly. 

Get away, you big lump I ” howled young 
Collins. “ Take his part — that’s right. You’ve 
got a yellow streak a yard wide.” 

By gum, him an’ Peter Whiffln ’ud make 


72 


The Rambler Club’s 


a fine pair this morninV’ exclaimed Mister 
Joe Rodgers/’ with a long, critical stare at the 
lawyer’s son. “ Ha, ha I Whiffin can’t find 
no barker ; he’s up ag’in it bad. Him an’ 
him ” — he indicated Victor — ‘‘ is sure like cats 
that’s had their tails trod on hard. I’d like 
to cool ’em off with this bucket o’ water. I’m 
a purty good feller, I am ; I ain’t a bit perwerse. 
But don’t nobody rile me.” 

All of which relieves our minds,” remarked 
Dave, gravely. Hold on, Vic I ” 

Victor, however, thoroughly disgusted, had 
no intention of waiting. Only a week before 
the hand of a senator had patted him on the 
shoulder in a fatherly way — and now I Well 
— “ Mister Joe Rodgers ” evidently didn’t 
know to whom he was talking. It was out- 
rageous ; and, what was more, Dave had calmly 
permitted both of them to be insulted without 
even putting in a word of protest. 

“ I wish I’d never heard of this confounded 
bunch of wonders,” he said in audible tones. 

A glance over his shoulder showed Dave 
looming up close behind and the water-carrier 
tramping across the lot with his heavy burden. 
‘‘Oh, I’m mad clean through, Brandon,” 


Motor Car 


73 

snapped Victor. “ Don't take my arm. No ; 
I won’t listen.” 

He did, however. Dave had a way that 
was hard to resist. The historian’s job was 
not an easy one, but there were so many in- 
teresting sights and sounds connected with 
Spudger’s Peerless ” that the angry look on 
Victor’s face gradually faded away. 

After every portion of the grounds had been 
visited Victor spoke up. 

‘‘ It’s time to get over to the wharf, Bran- 
don,” he said. “ Guess by this time Somers 
has talked Uncle Ralph off his feet.” 

‘‘ Then, to save him from serious injury, 
we’ll hurry,” laughed Dave. 

** Aren’t you going to say good-bye to your 
new-found friend, ‘ Mister ’ Joe Rodgers ? ” 

A queer little chap,” mused Dave. Guess 
I’ll never see him again.” 

And I certainly hope I never shall,” voiced 
the other, with a growl. 

When the two arrived at the wharf an 
amazing howl of dismay from Victor was 
Dave Brandon’s first intimation that some- 
thing extraordinary had happened. 

The Fearless ” was nowhere to be seen. 


CHAPTER VII 


DESERTED 

Victor stared at Dave in unconcealed as- 
tonishment. 

Hello I What do you think of that, Bran- 
don?” he gasped. “The yacht has actually 
gone off without me.” 

“ Of course not, Vic I ” 

“ Perhaps it’s right before my eyes — only I 
can’t see it ? ” exclaimed Victor, witheringly. 
“ Or maybe you think Uncle Ralph is putting 
the ^ Fearless ’ through some funny capers a 
mile up in the sky? ” 

“ It’s a kind of puzzle. I’ll admit. But ” 

“ I don’t like it a little bit,” broke in Vic- 
tor, beginning to pace the wharf. “ Uncle 
Ralph intended to leave at ten. It’s nine- 
fifteen now.” 

“ Very likely he has taken Bob and Charlie 
on a short cruise,” suggested Dave, consol- 
ingly. 

“ What for, I’d like to know ? ” 

74 


Motor Car 


75 


“ So should I.” 

“ Looks mighty queer to me/’ A heavy 
scowl rested on Victor’s face. Let’s get off 

this old pile of boards, and ” 

Go back to the hotel, I suppose? ” 

You suppose wrong, as usual. In the 
mood I’m in I might give the by-law com- 
mittee what I almost handed to Joe Rodgers. 
Back to that fine combination of Spudger and 
Whiffin.” 

But there’s three-quarters of an hour to 
spare, and the yacht is almost sure to be back 
within that time,” objected Dave, glancing at 
his watch. 

I won’t wait.” 

Dave’s resourcefulness was called into play. 
By means of a vigorous argument he managed 
to prolong their stay for a few moments, at 
the expiration of which he found himself 
alone. Laughing softly, he sat down on a 
box on the edge of the wharf. 

Ten o’clock arrived. Dave took another 
careful survey of the river, but, seeing no 
signs of the motor yacht, he accordingly 
walked off to join the figure loitering in the 
distance. 


76 The Rambler Club’s 

“ I knew it wouldn’t be there,” was Victor’s 
greeting. 

‘‘ Perhaps in a quarter of an hour be- 

gan the stout boy. 

Nix/^ interrupted Victor. Uncle Ralph 
has kept me waiting ; 111 keep him waiting. 
I’m going to the circus.’’ 

Tyrant I ” laughed Dave. Lead on, 
Prince. I’ll follow.” 

'' Here now : don’t you start any funny 
prattling, Brownie. My name is Victor.” 

Human nature is indeed a curious study,” 
sighed the historian. 

After another trip to Spudger’s the boys 
started for the wharf again. 

Gee, if Uncle Ralph isn’t there by this 
time I’ll give it up,” remarked Victor. 

Uncle Ralph wasn’t there. And if Victor 
did give it up he kept right on talking. 

The lad’s face reflected his keen disappoint- 
ment. He was beginning to feel very angry 
and disgusted. He was also extremely mysti- 
fied. What could it mean ? 

It looks as if I’m going to get cheated out 
of that dandy motor yacht trip to-day, Bran- 
don.” The scowling lines on his forehead 


Motor Car 


77 

deepened. By George, I never felt so mad 
in all my life. It's after eleven, now." 

The two were so busily engaged in conversa- 
tion that they failed to notice a little fat man 
who presently emerged from a shanty not far 
away and ambled slowly out on the wharf 
toward them. 

With his face wreathed in smiles he ap- 
proached, coughing in a sort of apologetic 
fashion as he said, touching his cap : 

“ I beg pardon, gents, but I'd like to speak 
to ye jist a moment." 

Victor eyed his slouchy figure with a dis- 
dainful stare. 

“ No — no ; not even a cent 1 " he exclaimed 
almost spitefully. “ You're husky enough to 
work. Go hustle after a job ! " 

The humorous light instantly left the little 
fat man's eyes, to be followed by such a fero- 
cious expression that Victor thought it wise to 
walk briskly away. 

“ Wal, if it don't beat all," growled the of- 
fended citizen. He struck the palm of his 
hand a savage blow. Wonder what the cap- 
tain 'ud say to that ? " 

Finding no answer to this perplexing prob- 


78 The Rambler Club’s 

lem, he started to follow the retreating lads ; 
then, apparently reconsidering, stopped short. 

They kin find out for theirselves,’^ he 
grunted, decidedly. 

When Victor, a few moments later, shot a 
glance over his shoulder he saw the man 
walking slowly away from the wharf. 

The idea of a husky lump like that ask- 
ing for money I he sniffed. 

He didn’t,” returned Dave. 

“ Well, he was going to. I’m glad I called 
him down. And I don’t care what you say, 
Brandon, there’s something funny about this 
boat business,” Victor almost screeched. 

We’ll go right over to the hotel now, and 
see Tom,” said Dave, firmly. 

There was a significance in his manner 
which Victor had already learned to compre- 
hend — it meant that his wishes were to be 
obeyed. Fuming with impatience, and feel- 
ing a deep sense of personal injury at the way 
things had gone, he followed his companion. 

“ The garage is on our way,” remarked 
Dave, a few minutes later. I want to see if 
that motor car has been made ready for our 
trip.” 


Motor Car 


79 


Benjamin Rochester, the colored lad, with 
an oily rag and a can of gasoline in his hand, 
looked up quickly as their forms were sil- 
houetted against the open doorway. 

Fo^ de land’s sake,” he gasped, ‘‘ I thought 
you fellers had done gone I ” 

Hello I ” cried Dave. 

He looked sharply around the garage. But 
the huge form of the Rambler Club’s motor 
car was not revealed to his eager gaze. 

What has become of our car, Benjamin ? ” 
he demanded, sternly. 

De Ian’ sake I You didn’t know ? ” 

“ Now what’s coming, I wonder I ” growled 
Victor. 

** Why, dat tall young gemman has jist 
took it away, suh,” answered Benjamin, scent- 
ing a mystery, and beginning to show the 
whites of his eyes. 

Took it away?” exclaimed Dave, incred- 
ulously. You can’t mean that our Tom 
took the machine away ? ” 

“ Fo’ de Ian’s sake ! An’ yo’ didn’t know ? ” 
Well, this beats the Dutch, and the 
American, and the English, all put to- 
gether I ” exploded Victor, so fiercely that 


8o 


The Rambler Club’s 


Benjamin, somewhat startled, side-stepped 
out of range. 

And where was he going? 

To Milwaukee, suh.” 

To Milwaukee ? echoed Dave and Victor, 
almost in the same breath. 

Dat’s perxactly what he done said, suh.^^ 

The boys looked at each other in amaze- 
ment. Victor clenched his small fists and 
whistled shrilly, while Dave gazed thought- 
fully at the grinning countenance of Benja- 
min Rochester. 

Tom gone to Milwaukee ! he murmured, 
in highly perplexed tones. And left no 
message for us ? ” 

No, suh ; de gemman didn’t say nuffin,” 
answered Benjamin. He wagged his head 
knowingly. But I had me s’picions, suh ; 
’deed I had. He acted awful queer, like he 
were done skeered, suh ; an’ kep’ a-lookin’ an’ 
a-lookin’.” 

‘‘ Here, Brownie ” — Victor Collins seized 
Dave’s wrist and fairly dragged him toward 
the door — come right along. I’ve got an 
idea.” 

The instant they were outside, Victor, his 


Motor Car 8i 

eyes sparkling, stopped by the curb and be- 
gan a broadside. 

Say, Brandon, remember how I kidded 
Clifton this morning ? he demanded. 

Yes,^’ answered Dave. 

Well, I guess he was actually thin-skinned 
enough to believe I really meant it. V\l bet 
he went tearing over to Uncle Ralph and jol- 
lied him i^to going off without me.^’ 

What a ridiculous idea, VicI^' laughed 
Dave. Why should Tom have done such a 
thing ? 

Victor eyed him scornfully. 

‘‘ Just to get ahead of the game, that^s why. 
Don^t you see ? 

No, I don’t, Vic.” 

Then brush up your perceptive faculties 
a bit. Here it is a second time : he was so 
afraid that I might get Uncle Ralph to take 
you chaps to Milwaukee as a joke — see ? — that 
he sets his wits to work, goes over to the yacht 
to find out, discovers that you and I are at the 
circus, and plays the joke first. See again ? ” 

Bob and Charlie would never have stood 
for such a thing,” declared Dave. 

They would ! ” returned Victor. And I 


82 


The Rambler Club’s 

know Uncle Ralph ; he’s just the one to fall 
for a game like that/^ 

The stout boy raised his hand protestingly. 

Why, Vic ! 

Oh, don’t ‘ why Vic ’ me I ” snapped Victor. 

I tell you. Uncle Ralph Bunderley probably 
sat down and roared.” 

You won’t think so when you feel in a 
better humor,” laughed Dave. 

“ I don’t care what you say, Brandon ; that’s 
the way I figure it out. Anyway, if that long- 
legged Indian did engineer it ” — he fiourished 
his fists savagely — he’ll stop a few of these I ” 

Let’s try and reason ” 

There isn’t any reason to it. That Clifton 
fellow has just turned the trick ; he’s getting 
square for some of the true things I said about 
him.” 

Nothing of the sort,” said Dave. 

Oh, I reckon you’ll stand up for that grand 
and perfect Clifton. Honest, though, I didn’t 
think the sly, foxy Indian would do Brownie 
up brown like this.” 

Dave, refusing to countenance such an idea, 
propounded theory after theory, each of which 
his companion promptly rejected. 


Motor Car 


83 

There’s no use talking, Brandon,” he ex- 
claimed, at length. I declare, I’m mad 
enough to punch his head off. The yacht’s 
gone ; the gasoline tank’s gone ; and we’re here 
in Kenosha.” 

And I’m likely to stay for some time to 
come, unless the fellows turn up.” 

The worried expression on the historian’s 
face gave place to a broad grin. 

Why ? ” demanded Victor. 

Because I’m stranded — broke — cast into 
the seething vortex of life without gold, silver, 
nickel, or even copper to lend me a helping 
hand.” 

How in the dickens did such a thing as 
that happen ? ” 

It’s this way, Vic : after I’d paid my way 
out to Chicago I didn’t have a red cent left. 
So I was obliged to throw myself on the tender 
mercies of the crowd until we reach Mil- 
waukee.” 

'‘Isn’t this all another joke?” queried 
Victor, suspiciously. 

“ Not a bit of it, Vic.” 

" Well, if they’ve been lending you cash 
how is it you’re broke ? ” 


84 


The Rambler Club’s 


I was going to get another five from Bob 
this morning.’^ 

Victor’s eyes began to twinkle. Then, like 
a fiash, his mood completely changed. A 
wide grin merged into a laugh ; his slender 
form shook with a perfect storm of merriment, 
while Benjamin, from the doorway, looked on 
with wondering eyes. 

My, oh my, but don’t I feel sorry for you, 
Brownie I ” he gasped, between another succes- 
sion of outbursts. Broke ? Gee I I’ll bet 
you are just shaking in your shoes.” 

Dave smiled calmly. 

“ Maybe so, Vic,” he returned, good-na- 
turedly. Perhaps our stay in Kenosha may 
add more pages to my history than I antici- 
pated.” 

To Victor’s mind there was something ex- 
tremely comical in Dave Brandon’s unexpected 
situation. His face now actually beamed. 
Things were at last breaking in a way to suit 
him. Without a move on his part, events 
had so shaped themselves that at least one 
member of the Rambler Club was likely 
to come tumbling down several pegs in a 
hurry. 


Motor Car 


85 

Victor wasn’t really such a bad chap. He 
simply possessed an over-supply of the weak- 
nesses of human nature, which had been 
fostered — unintentionally, of course — by a too- 
indulgent parent. 

I’ll lend the big Indian just as much of 
the cash as he wants,” reflected the boy, but 
he’ll have to get off his high perch and ask 
me for it. Gee, won’t I laugh when the great 
depending-upon-himself fellow hollers for 
help I ” 

In a moment, slapping Dave on the shoulder, 
he said : 

What are you going to do ? ” 

“ Go back to the hotel. Perhaps Tom may 
have left some message for us.” 

Well, I don’t believe it.” 

With a sigh, Dave started off. 

Good-bye, Benjamin,” he called, catching 
sight of the wondering colored lad. ‘‘I only 
hope this is * much ado about nothing,’ 
or ” 

“ It won’t be any ^ Tempest in a teapot ’ 
when I get hold of Wyoming Tom,” said 
Victor, decidedly ; '' and don’t you forget it.” 

Dar am sartingly somethin’ queer ’bout dat 


86 


The Rambler Club’s 


dar bunch/^ murmured Benjamin Rochester, 
shaking his head knowingly. 

When the two arrived at the hotel the clerk 
told them that Tom had left no message. 

“ Of course the tall Indian didn’t I ” ex- 
claimed the smaller lad. 

To his astonishment, Dave ambled slowly 
into the reception room and took a seat. 

I say, Brownie,” remarked Victor, “ I’m 
going out to get some grub.” 

Hope you’ll enjoy it,” came an easy re- 
sponse. 

“ Why in thunder doesn’t he ask? ” thought 
Victor. Then, aloud, he added : 

Aren’t you hungry. Brownie ? ” 

Sure, Vic ; always am.” 

Coming, then ? ” 

Can’t ! ” 

‘‘Why not?” 

“ For obvious reasons, my dear sir.” 

“ Humph ! Wants me to offer it to him. 
Not on your life ! ” was another of Victor’s 
reflections. “ How are you going to manage, 
Brandon ? ” 

“ Time will tell, Vic.” 

The Chicago boy stood, irresolute ; his better 


Motor Car 


87 

nature prompted him to offer assistance. But 
the slights Victor imagined he had suffered 
suddenly flashed into his mind. 

“ No ; I won’t do it. If the duffer is too 
all-fired proud to speak up he’ll get out of his 
fix the best way he can.” 

“ No use to wait for me, Vic,” said Dave. 

Just as you say, Brandon. So-long I ” 

Once outside the room, however, Victor’s 
conscience smote him. He walked back and 
poked his head inside the doorway. I’ll 
give him another chance,” he said to himself. 

“ Say, Brandon, what’s your program ? ” 

Time will tell, Vic,” responded the stout 
boy. 

With a snort of disgust, Victor turned on 
his heel. 

This ought to teach the big Indian a jolly 
good lesson,” he muttered, fiercely. After a 
while he’ll be singing a mighty different 
tune.” 

When Victor Collins, refreshed by an ample 
repast, returned to the hotel he received his 
third surprise of the day. 


CHAPTER VIII 


TOM AT THE WHEEL 

The moment the door had closed behind 
his friends Tom Clifton prepared to make good 
use of the time. 

Now ITl be able to finish it up in great 
shape/’ he said softly to himself. 

He listened, his face wearing a very serious 
expression, until their cheery voices were stilled 
by distance, then drawing a voluminous col- 
lection of papers from his inside pocket he 
spread them out carefully on the center table 
and set to work. 

Evidently the problems which confronted 
him were of a very profound and complex 
nature. The lines on his forehead deepened ; 
occasionally he uttered a half sigh, as some 
particularly knotty point was encountered ; 
then, losing patience, he rose to his feet and 
walked toward an armchair near the window. 

Picking up a book, the well-worn appearance 
of which indicated much usage, he opened it 
88 


Motor Car 


89 

at random and began to read a description of 
the deltoid muscle, its origin, insertion and 
various functions. 

But a treatise on anatomy, just then, couldn^t 
hold Tom’s attention long. 

By George, that twenty-second article is a 
sticker,” he exclaimed, aloud. “ I’ll get it 
through.” He looked at his watch. “ Gee, 
I’ll have to hurry. Isn’t Victor the freshest 
little dub? Afraid to take the car out alone, 
am I? He certainly does make me tired.” 

When the obstinate twenty-second article 
was finally conquered the lad breathed a sigh 
of relief, and a good-natured grin replaced the 
scowl on his face, as he began gathering the 
loose sheets of paper together. 

It’s a dandy piece of work, all right — bet 
Dave’ll think so, too,” he reflected. “We’re 
going to make some stir in the Kingswood 
High this term.” 

Tom busied himself for a few moments in 
replacing his belongings in a suit case. This 
done, he glanced at his watch once more. 

“ It’s most time for ’em now,” he murmured. 
“ Crickets I I’m anxious to hop into that car 
again.” 


90 


The Rambler Club’s 


Thoughts of the pleasant journey before 
them and the sensation which his by-laws 
were certainly bound to create were in his 
mind to the exclusion of all else, but, as time 
passed by, the former steadily gained the 
ascendency. 

What’s keeping those chaps, I wonder ? ’’ 
Tom, in his impatience, paced the floor. 

They ought to have been here before this.’^ 
The next quarter of an hour was really a 
distressing period to the tall boy. Every step 
in the corridor, every voice which penetrated 
into the room, made his heart beat with hope. 
But as each faded away it left him annoyed, 
even angry. 

Never knew Bob Somers to fail in his 
word before,” he repeated several times. 

Unable to stand the dreary task of waiting 
any longer Tom slapped on his cap, and, in a 
moment, was down-stairs at the door. 

He looked searchingly along the street in 
both directions. But there were no familiar 
faces in the ever-passing throng. 

Hang it all,” he growled. “ If we were in 
Chicago I might understand it, because there’s 
a Are every few minutes, or some kind of a 


Motor Car 


91 

rumpus going on. But here 1 — Why don’t 
those chaps come back ? ’’ 

No answer was suggested by the mental 
query which insistently propounded itself ; so, 
finally, with a last long look and grunt of dis- 
approval, Tom climbed back to Bob Somers’ 
room. The book on anatomy reappeared, and 
the student, with an air of deep injury, once 
more began to read. 

It was, at length, fully fifteen minutes be- 
yond the time appointed for the yacht to leave. 

Suddenly Tom sat bolt upright. He seemed 
as startled as though some one had clapped 
him unexpectedly on the shoulder. 

Could it be possible ? 

He drew a long, deep breath. A dreadful 
suspicion had entered his head. He tried to 
cast it off with scorn ; but, somehow, the 
thought would not down. Were the boys 
testing his courage ? Had they actually gone 
away with Victor on the motor yacht ? Did 
the crowd wish to find out how he stood in 
relation to the fiopper ” class ? And yet it 
wasn’t like honest, straightforward Bob Sona- 
ers to act in such a way. 

The precious book of anatomy fell unheeded 


92 


The Rambler Club’s 


to the floor, as Tom restlessly paced up and 
down, while conflicting ideas chased each 
other swiftly through his brain. 

I don’t — can’t believe it,” he said, aloud. 
‘‘ Of course not I What a silly idiot I am. 
The crowd’ll be here soon. Mustn’t let ’em 
think they had me aeroplaning.” He smiled 
grimly as an idea struck him. I’ll just 
sprint down to the wharf and settle it.” 

So Tom, with unseemly haste, again dashed 
down-stairs, and did almost sprint ” through 
the streets in the direction of the river. It 
was quite a long distance, too, but probably 
few had ever covered it in so short a time. 

The moment his eyes rested on the familiar 
pilings at which Captain Bunderley’s motor 
yacht was usually moored he stopped short 
and uttered a low whistle. His suspicions 
were not without foundation, after all. 

The Fearless ” had gone. 

Yes, the Fearless ” had gone I There 
could be no doubt about it. Tom Clifton felt 
a strange variety of emotions assail him. He 
eagerly scanned the river, half expecting to 
see the yacht somewhere on its surface. But 
his search was in vain. 


Motor Car 


93 


“ Well, well I Victor must have actually 
managed to pull off that trick,’’ he growled. 

Smarting with indignation, the lad covered 
the space between him and the end of the 
wharf in record time. 

A small, stout man sitting on a barrel looked 
up as he approached. 

Hey,” began Tom, ** were you here this 
morning when that motor yacht left ? ” 

The stout man, with a whimsical light in 
his eye, was gazing hard into the boy’s face. 

Yer hat is a great distance up from the 
ground, me lad,” he remarked, casually. 
“ Kin ye see acrost to the lake from there? ” 

“ Oh, cut it out. I’m no lighthouse I ” 
snapped Tom, forgetting politeness in his ruf- 
fled state of mind. “ Were you ” 

The stout man stopped him. 

I were, for sure,” he answered, emphatic- 
ally. 

“ See any boys on board ? ” 

I did — sure ag’in.” 

“ Been gone long ? ” 

** Yes, a right smart spell. Runned off 
without yer, did they, mate? Some people is 
mean enough for anythin’.” 


94 


The Rambler Club’s 


Tom was too angry and disturbed to make 
any reply to this observation. 

“ My, but wouldn't I like to punch that 
little Victor," he thought. ‘‘ I didn't think it 
of Bob Somers ; or Dave, either. Looks as 
though the whole bunch is trying to have a 
big joke at my expense. Hey ? " 

The little man was speaking again. 

Ye oughter be real glad ye weren't took 
along, mate," he remarked, pleasantly. ‘‘Ye 
look kinder peart now ; but a right smart 
spell o' tossin' about out there 'ud take that 
out o' you. I always says, give me seasoned 
water every time." 

“ Seasoned water? " queried Tom. 

“ Sure, mate ; some as has plenty o' salt in 
it. I've sailed on both kinds, an' I know." 

“ Then I suppose the lake makes you feel 
a bit peppery at times, eh? " grunted Tom, as 
he strode rapidly away. 

“ Well, of all things! " he exclaimed, hotly, 
when out of hearing distance. “ Isn't this the 
limit 1 A dandy trip bungled at the very 
start ; and all on account of that little spoiled 
kid. By George, they certainly have put it 
up to me to take our car to Milwaukee all 


Motor Car 


95 

alone. Think I’ll ‘ flop,’ eh, as Victor calls 
it? Well, I rather guess not ! 

Tom looked very savage indeed ; his fists 
were tightly clenched, and he glared about 
him in a way that might have attracted atten- 
tion had any observers been near. 

The cool gusts of wind which continually 
swept against the lad, together with the busy 
scenes along the wharves, finally began to 
calm his belligerent spirit. The first effect of 
the unpleasant situation wearing off left him 
with a dogged feeling of determination to 
show his mettle. 

Presently Tom sat down on an old box, 
from which position he had a good view of 
the river. But another period of waiting 
brought no result, and he rose to his feet more 
disgusted than ever. 

His mind had been busily engaged. He 
did not intend to let any one, even his best 
friends, play jokes on him. 

If the bunch doesn't turn up mighty fast,'' 
he reflected, “ I'll have a little fun in that car 
all by my lonesome. No doubt now — it's 
Milwaukee for mine." 

The boys didn't turn up. Whereupon Tom, 


96 The Rambler Club’s 

deciding that he had, with Sherlock Holmes 
intelligence, made the proper deductions, went 
back to the hotel. There he gathered together 
the few articles of luggage which the crowd 
carried with them and paid their bill. 

I’ll be back soon with the car,” he ex- 
plained, briefly, to the clerk. 

At the garage the proprietor was mildly 
surprised to see only the very tall lad return- 
ing to take charge of the motor car, but, con- 
cluding that it was none of his affair, he made 
no comments. 

The machine seemed to have increased 
marvelously in size since Tom had last seen 
it. In the midst of other vehicles it loomed 
up in a positively gigantic fashion. How 
easily he could picture in his mind Dave 
Brandon lolling in comfort on the rear seat. 
What a strange, dismal silence hovered over 
the big car now ! A peculiar sense of lone- 
liness stole over him. He stood, irresolute. 
Then, in an instant, and with a shrug of his 
shoulders, he climbed up to the chauffeur’s 
seat. 

Yes, suh, I done filled the tank with gaso- 
line,” explained a smiling colored lad, in 


Motor Car 


97 


answer to his query. “ Dar ain't nuthin' to be 
did. Whar's ye goin', suh, if I might ask? " 
To Milwaukee," answered Tom. 

‘^Sho, dat am sartingly a fine trip. Yes, 
suh, de way am clear." 

Tom Clifton’s hand trembled a little as he 
laid it on the steering wheel. Without the 
presence of the others to strengthen his cour- 
age the task of driving the car through the 
city streets assumed more formidable propor- 
tions than he liked. But, giving the button on 
the dash a push, he muttered, determinedly : 

“ I’ll play the game right to the end." 

In another instant the echoes of the engine’s 
rapid pulsation thundered through the garage. 
A cloud of gasoline vapor swirled aloft, to lose 
itself among the rafters. The clutch was 
thrown on. 

So-long, Benjamin I ’’ 

So-long, Mistah ! I done hopes yo hab a 
bully trip." 

The big touring car slid easily past the 
doorway ; a series of warning blasts from the 
horn sounded, and Tom was on the street. 

Once outside, with the machine responding 
to his slightest touch, he soon began to feel a 


The Rambler Club’s 


98 

little easier in mind. Yet how empty the car 
seemed I How he missed the cheery voices 
and merry laughter of his companions I Why 
had they allowed themselves to be so influ- 
enced by Victor — why ? 

And then the thought that he had acted 
too impulsively flashed through Tom^s mind. 

Suppose I should find ’em at the hotel ? 
They’d have a jolly good laugh at my expense, 
after all,” he reflected. 

But, on this point, he need not have dis- 
turbed himself. Neither Victor nor any of 
the others was at the hotel when the car 
stopped before the entrance. 

Those chaps even had the confounded 
cheek to leave their traps for me to look 
after,” grumbled Tom, as the boy in bright 
brass buttons assisted him in stowing away the 
luggage. Well, all right. The first inning 
of the game’s been played. Here’s the begin- 
ning of the second.” 

Once more the touring car was in motion. 
With all the responsibility resting on his 
shoulders, the lad experienced new and novel 
sensations — and most of them were not alto- 
gether pleasant. He sadly missed Bob Somers’ 


Motor Car 


99 


words of caution and advice. Approaching 
the public square, with numerous vehicles 
and pedestrians on all sides, he became decid- 
edly nervous. 

Just as the car rolled toward the principal 
crossing, around the corner of which Tom 
decided to turn, a tall man who had been 
reading a newspaper by the curb suddenly 
stepped out into the street. 

With a cry, Tom reached over and sounded 
the horn sharply. He took his foot off the 
clutch and threw on the break. It was an 
instant of intense satisfaction to him — and, 
perhaps, some surprise, when the touring car 
abruptly stopped. 

And, meanwhile, a flying leap had taken 
the man to safety. 

At the moment of landing, fully a yard 
from the starting point, his temper took effect 
all at once. 

Hey there, what’s the matter ? Ain’t you 
got no eyes?” he demanded, in amazingly 
gruff tones. 

‘‘ Well, that’s a good one I ” cried Tom, 
though his voice was somewhat shaky. How 
— how — about 3^ourself ? ” 


100 


The Rambler Club’s 

“ Don’t pass out any flip talk, now. I 
won’t stand for it.” 

: Better wait until I do.” 

The angry citizen paused, took a good look 
at the tall chauffeur, then : 

“ Why, you ain’t nothin’ but a kid I ” he 
exclaimed. 

Tom’s face flushed. 

I’m old enough to know what I’m doing,” 
he answered, witheringly. 

You are, hey ? There ought to be a 
law passed against letting fellers what ain’t 
cut their eye teeth yet drive regular whale- 
back ships like that through the streets. 
What are you doing in there, anyway, 
boy ? ” 

If you throw any more words in this di- 
rection you may find out.” 

Got a license for knocking folks down, 
have you ? ” 

A small crowd had already gathered, and 
seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the situa- 
tion. 

Don’t let ’im faze you, chaufyer,” screeched 
a very small lad. 

Tom, making a strong effort to appear cool 


Motor Car loi 

and dignified, leaned forward. His eye caught 
the tall man’s. 

I’d like to say this,” he roared : if the 
city intended the middle of the street to be 
used as a place for reading newspapers they’d 
have put a few benches and chairs along it.” 

Chuckles of mirth came from the audience. 

Ha, ha ! You’ve got ’im goin’,” piped a 
very youthful citizen. 

Coin’ I He’s the one that will be goin’ ! ” 
roared the man whose life had been saved. 

Where’s there a cop ? Where’s that officer I 
saw on the corner a few moments ago ? ” 

If he hadn’t gone, too,” cried Tom, look- 
ing around, he’d pinch you for disorderly 
conduct and blocking the highway. Get out 
of the road. This machine is going to buzz 
like a sawmill.” 

An elderly lady, who disliked everybody 
that rode in an automobile, declared to a 
companion that Tom was the most brazen- 
looking young scamp she had ever seen ; and, 
the fact is, he did not at that moment appear 
very angelic. 

Snorting indignantly, and still somewhat 
unnerved, Tom threw in the clutch. 


102 


The Rambler Club’s 


He had expected to spend some time scout- 
ing around in the center of the city. But this 
experience caused him to decide that the more 
quiet streets would do just as well. 

That chap was certainly a grouch/^ he 
murmured, still highly indignant. But I 
guess my remark about the benches squelched 
him.’^ 

A number of blocks were passed, each in- 
stant bringing him nearer to the wharf where 
the Fearless had been moored. 

Bet, by this time, the yacht is back,’^ he 
murmured, hopefully. ‘‘ 1^11 never let on how 
the boys had me going, both in and out of the 
car.^^ 

The river soon swept into view. Tom, peer- 
ing eagerly ahead, felt his spirits sink again. 
A number of boats dotted the gray, gloomy- 
looking surface, but the motor yacht “ Fear- 
less was not among the number. 

** Well, well I I might have known I was 
right.^^ 

The car came to a full stop. Tom sat for 
many minutes absorbed in deep reflection. 
Then a grim smile played across his features. 

111 show ^em how well I can play the 


Motor Car 


103 


game/^ he cried once more to the empty air. 
His hand gripped the horn bulb. A resound- 
ing blast instantly followed. There goes the 
signal for the third inning. I’ll make a home 
run to Milwaukee, and bob up smiling.” 


CHAPTER IX 


SPEEDING 

I CERTAINLY hope we donT meet any more 
mean, tricky little kids,’^ soliloquized Tom, as 
the touring car rushed steadily ahead, each in- 
stant leaving the city of Kenosha further and 
further behind. By George — the nerve of 
him I Well — the fellows will find out that 
when it comes to matching wits they haven’t 
much on me.” 

Tom Clifton’s confidence had returned ; the 
strange feeling of loneliness which at first had 
persisted in hanging over him, as well as the 
half-defined fear of something happening to 
the motor were rapidly being dispelled. The 
six cylinders, operating with perfect precision, 
sent off on the breeze their steady vibrating 
roar. Tom’s cheek was fiushed with the ex- 
citement and novelty of his position. He 
seemed to have grown into man’s estate at a 
bound. 


104 


Motor Car 


105 


I guess when I meet the yacht at Mil- 
waukee I’ll have the laugh on the whole 
bunch,” he thought, with a cheerful grin. 

The weather was still threatening. A stiff, 
cold breeze constantly blowing in his face 
made the goggles very acceptable indeed, and 
he had found it prudent to put on his heavier 
coat. Now and again he caught glimpses of 
Lake Michigan. Far out on the great body 
of agitated water he could see tossing white- 
caps gleaming like silver against the gray 
background of choppy waves. 

Shouldn’t wonder if I got caught in an 
awful blow before long,” he said aloud, some- 
what anxiously. 

At times the route took him not far from 
the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. Oc- 
casionally trains thundered by, their whistles 
sending shrieking blasts that died out in 
throbbing echoes over the dreary landscape. 

Tom felt an almost irresistible impulse to 
throw on all power and race these defiant- 
looking iron monsters, but thoughts of the law 
and of sharp-eyed constables deterred him. 

At length a village sprang into view ahead. 
On closer inspection it seemed to have the 


io6 The Rambler Club’s 

usual accompaniments of barking dogs, cack- 
ling geese, and countless chickens. 

Only by the narrowest margin were several 
terrible casualties among the bird family 
averted that day. Tom’s heart beat fast with 
apprehension as a small army of geese, led by 
an ancient gander, suddenly swooped directly 
in the path of the oncoming machine. 

The fierce yells of a blue-shirted man lean- 
ing against a fence did not help to ease his 
troubled spirit. 

Great Scott I ” 

The words broke impulsively from Tom’s 
lips, as, with frantic haste, he operated the 
steering wheel. 

For an instant he expected to hear an awful 
cackling ringing in his ears. But the big 
touring car swerved sufficiently to clear the 
rear guard of frantically flying legs. 

By George I And never even rufiled a 
feather I ” cried Tom, in great relief. 

The village was quickly passed. On reach- 
ing a bend a stretch of almost straight road 
lay before him. The country looked very 
deserted and lonely. Here and there a house, 
far off in the fields, patches of trees, or the 


Motor Car 


107 

crooked line of a fence alone broke the monoto- 
nous landscape. 

The temptation to “ burn up the road ” was 
too great to resist. Tom threw on power until 
the telegraph poles seemed to be literally 
hurling themselves through space toward 
him. He had certainly recovered his nerve, 
a fact on which he proudly congratulated 
himself. 

But the thrills produced by the terrific 
speed were of no ordinary kind, causing him 
before long to slow down considerably. 

Gee I Now IVe done it, I wonT do it 
again, he muttered, with all the elation of a 
chauffeur who has captured a world^s record. 
‘‘ Awful risky, that I Maybe Bob Somers 
wouldnT have opened his eyes. Hello — 
Racine I 

Beyond an open field houses were coming 
into view, and still further beyond several 
church spires pierced the lowering atmos- 
phere. 

At a moderate speed, Tom kept on, while 
evidences that a busy, thriving town lay ahead 
constantly increased. Before long the ma- 
chine was rolling over a wide, pleasant avenue 


io8 The Rambler Club’s 

lined with houses set some distance apart, 
many having fine lawns in front. 

As the character of the street changed so 
did Tom’s feelings. When the livelier sec- 
tions of the city were reached nervousness 
once again had him in its grip. But, with 
firm determination, he mastered the tremors 
which, for a time, threatened to interfere with 
his manipulation of the steering wheel. 

Easy, boy — easy 1 ’’ he counseled to him- 
self. 

The big machine was rounding a corner 
which reminded him of the one in Kenosha. 

Main Street,” he read on a near-by sign. 

Pretty brisk, too,” murmured Tom. 
** Must be a busy time of day.” 

Clang, clang, clang I 

In response to the insistent warnings of a 
rapidly-approaching electric car he drew near 
the curb. Then a two-horse dray swung 
sharply off from the car tracks and compelled 
him to come to a stop. 

Tom was just in the humor to call out 
gruffly : 

“ Hey, there I Where are you going ? ” 

But the trolley car at that instant whizzed 


Motor Car 


109 

rapidly past, and the boy concluded, just in 
time to check the remark, that the driver of 
the dray was justified in his action. 

This far from exciting incident was the only 
one which marked the passage of the motor 
car through the streets of Racine. Tom, how- 
ever, drew a long, deep breath of relief when 
clanging gongs, blasts of automobile horns 
and the rattle of wagons were but a memory 
and the open country lay stretched once more 
before him. 

In the middle distance the moisture-laden 
air seemed to dip down, and through this veil 
the views beyond were revealed in misty 
patches. Every minute it looked as if the 
scudding clouds would begin to dissolve them- 
selves in torrents of driving rain. All vege- 
tation glistened with cold gray reflections 
caught from above. Yet, as the motor car 
sent the mile-stones, one after another, slip- 
ping past, the expected did not happen. 

It will mighty soon, though, I^m think- 
ing,^’ mused Tom. “ By gum, this is rather 
lonely work. Houses ahead I Good I Signs 
of life out here are certainly scarce.” 

It was a very pretty little village along the 


no 


The Rambler Club’s 


principal street of which the car presently 
rolled. He caught several glimpses of men 
working in fields ; of others gathered in front 
of a store. They hailed him ; he sent an an- 
swering salute ; then, in a few moments, the 
last house had been reached and passed. 

As the journey approached its end Tom 
Clifton’s impatience increased. Several times 
he drove the car for short stretches at a clip 
which almost rivaled his first daring attempt 
at speeding. Another village was passed, and 
then another. Some distance to his right an 
occasional column of rapidly-moving smoke 
or jets of steam marked the progress of north 
or south-bound trains. 

Easy job — I didn’t have any trouble find- 
ing the way,” grinned Tom. “ One look at 
our road map was enough. By George ; it’s a 
lucky thing, too, that I remember the place 
where Captain Bunderley said his motor yacht 
was always moored at Milwaukee. ‘ Right by 
the East Water Street bridge, boys,’ — those 
were his very words. She ought to have ar- 
rived by this time. And I know how to steer 
the machine there straight as a carrier pigeon 
scoots for home.” 


Motor Car 


111 


Hey there, young feller I 

The motor car was nearing an intersecting 
road. It bore an appearance strangely similar 
to numerous others passed that day, but 
whereas they had generally been deserted on 
this particular one he saw a small slight man 
of uncertain age sprinting toward him at a 
lively rate of speed. 

“ Hey there, young feller I came the hail 
a second time. 

In obedience to the authoritative summons, 
Tom slowed up, stopping just as the man, 
breathing hard, reached the main road. 


CHAPTER X 


THE CONSTABLE 

The Rambler's gaze rested upon an odd- 
looking man who wore a gray beard. His 
skin was tanned to a coppery color ; around 
his eyes innumerable wrinkles had formed, 
giving to his face a curious quizzical expres- 
sion. 

“ Goodness — a county constable I " thought 
Tom. 

The first words he heard confirmed this un- 
pleasant suspicion. 

You've been scorchin', ain't ye ? " 

Scorching ? " howled Tom, indignantly. 
“ Why, I never even scorched a biscuit." 

That's a good one. I saw ye." 

No, sir ! It was only a reasonable rate of 
speed." 

How many good telegraph poles did ye 
knock down along the route?" asked Tom's 
questioner, sarcastically. 

I put every one right back in its place." 

112 


Motor Car 


You look like one o’ them pampered fel- 
lers. Most likely yer dad’s a millionaire.” 

Nothing of the sort I ” broke in Tom, im- 
patiently. 

‘‘What ain’t?” 

“ What you said.” 

“ What I said ain’t nothin’ o’ the sort, eh ? 
Wal, it’ll go easier with yer if ye ain’t forgot 
the politeness ye Tamed in early youth. 
Back there ” — he waved a brown finger in 
the air — “ ye scorched ; own up now I ” His 
words were jerked out with incisive emphasis. 
“ Own up now I ” 

“ Maybe I did go a little fast,” admitted 
Tom, hesitatingly, “ but — but — here ! What 
are you doing ? ” 

The countryman, without waiting for any- 
thing further, had calmly stepped on the run- 
ning board. He leaned over to open the door. 

Next instant the highly-indignant chauf- 
feur saw him climbing into the car. 

“ The court-house ain’t so very far,” an- 
nounced the unexpected passenger, calmly 
seating himself on the rear cushions. “ Cheer 
up, young feller. ’Twon’t be more’n fifteen 
dollars ; an’ if ye hain’t got it the county alius 


U4 The Rambler Club’s 

takes good keer o^ the machine till ye comes 
out/' 

“ This is a pretty kettle of fish I " cried 
Tom, hotly. 

! Some o' the prettiest fish I ever see has 
been ketched right around here, son. But 
don't let yer machine git rusty. Even ma- 
chine oil has riz in price." 

Tom was too disgusted to make any re- 
joinder. He turned his head, to stare hard 
into a pair of twinkling gray eyes. An awk- 
ward silence followed. 

Did you mistake this for a sightseeing 
car?" demanded Tom, at length. “Please 
step right out I " 

The other grinned complacently. 

“ I'm only a little bunch," he confided, 
“ but when I worked in lumber camps me 
pals said I were as strong as a steel trap ; and 
that's pretty near so. Nobody has ever put 
me off an automobile yit." He laughed softly. 
“ Feel like trying it ? " 

“ Who are you ? " asked Tom, wrathfully. 

The man settled the matter beyond all 
question. From an inside pocket he produced 
a small, ominous-looking shield. 


Motor Car 


115 

*‘How does that strike ye he asked, mildly. 
Then you're a — a constable, after all ? " 

“ If ye'd guessed a year ye couldn't hev 
guessed better. This is a free country; but 
when the majesty o’ the law has been damaged 
fifteen dollars' worth " 

‘‘ But I didn't scorch — an' you know it I " 
cried Tom. ^ 

Softly, young feller. It's lucky for you 
Jack Piker didn't see that last lap o' yourn, 
that's all. I'm an easier man than him." 

I could have gone twice as fast," insisted 
Clifton, angrily. 

So much the worse if ye had." 

The boy pleaded and coaxed. There was no 
reason why he should be delayed ; he was going 
moderately fast, but not at any rate of speed that 
could be considered illegal. None of his argu- 
ments, however, appeared to have the slightest 
effect upon the little man on the rear seat. Oc- 
casionally a low, chuckling laugh escaped him. 
The lines around his eyes deepened. 

“ When you git finished start 'er up," he 
commanded, firmly. 

And Tom, fairly boiling over with indig- 
nation, “started up." 


ii6 The Rambler Club’s 


He squared his shoulders ; his jaws clicked 
together. 

‘‘ And it^s all on account of that miserable 
Victor Collins,” he muttered. “ Never mind I 
I haven’t been touched out at first yet. Wait 
till I get before the justice ! ” 

Tom had so many thoughts to keep his 
mind occupied that the next town emerged 
into view through the gloomy haze ahead 
with surprising suddenness. 

'' South Milwaukee,” announced a gruff* 
voice from the rear. 

Tom scorned to reply. 

The hum of smoothly-working machinery, 
the soft whirr of wheels and the chant and 
moan of the wind were the only sounds which 
broke the silence as the distance became less 
and less. 

Finally the motor car was on the principal 
street of the town. Tom had been expecting 
every instant to receive orders to proceed at 
once to the hall where justice held full sway, 
but, so far, the little man, beyond hailing sev- 
eral acquaintances with considerable enthusi- 
asm, had remained silent. 

Ah — now it comes I ” 


Motor Car 


117 


A long finger was tapping his shoulder. 

“ Stop I commanded the passenger. 

Tom looked hastily about him, but could 
see no building suggestive of a court-house. 

The machine drew up to the curb and came 
to a halt. 

I certainly am much obliged to you, son.'^ 

“ Eh ? What do you mean ? queried Tom, 
in surprise. 

The little man ^s eyes were twinkling merrily. 
Suddenly he burst into a series of loud guffaws, 
while young Clifton’s look of astonishment 
momentarily increased. 

Ain’t I speakin’ English ? ” 

Hang it all ; I — I don’t understand it.’’ 

Ha, ha ! Of course ye don’t. But ask 
anybody nigh-abouts who knows Jerry Dinglar 
an’ they’d tell ye he’s the greatest practical 
joker in town. I simply can’t help it.” 

You — you — surely don’t mean that this is 
all a lark, do you ? ” exclaimed Tom, hope- 
fully. 

One square look into Mr. Dinglar’s eyes was 
enough to reveal the truth. 

Great Scott I ” 

Tom breathed a sigh of relief. He felt so 


ii8 The Rambler Club’s 


joyous that his anger melted entirely away. 
Willingly he seized and shook the lean brown 
hand which was thrust toward him, suppress- 
ing with difficulty a desire to indulge in bois- 
terous mirth. 

“ Only a joke 1 ” he exclaimed. Ha, ha I 
— But ” — his face suddenly became grave 
again — aren’t you really a constable ? ” 

I’m the greatest stickler for facts you ever 
heard of,” confided Mr. Dinglar. “ Sure I am 
a constable. Now let me tell you somethin’ 
< — let it soak in good, too : back there ain’t in 
my jurisdiction ; Piker attends to that most o’ 
the time, an’ I’m generally off to the north o’ 
here. But I wanted to git a lift inter town 
• — understan’ ? An’ when I see a young 
chap cornin’ along swift as an Injun arrow 
I makes up my mind to hev it. See the 
p’int?” 

Tom admitted that he caught the idea. 

But why in thunder didn’t you just ask 
me ? ” he inquired. 

Jerry Dinglar shook his head. 

Me friends all like me well enough, but 
I’ll wager they’d give somethin’ big if I’d only 
move out o’ the county, yes, they would.” 


Motor Car 


119 

His chuckling laugh came again. See the 
p’int?’^ 

Tom nodded. 

“ I had to hev my little joke ; an’ you look 
enough like my own son to be his brother.” 

Tom turned his face away to hide a rather 
odd expression. 

“ Only he ain’t stretched out to ’most the 
breakin’ p’int, as you are,” added the official. 
“ Anyway, it made me do you a good turn.” 

“ How ? ” asked Tom, interestedly. 

“ If Jack Piker had saw what I see’d it 
would hev been fifteen dollars’ worth o’ law 
busted, sure. Better take advice o’ one who 
introduces automobile fellers to the judge 
every week — be keerful ; don’t do it ag’in. 
That’s what I was wantin’ ter impress on yer 
mind — understan’ ? ” The little man clapped 
him on the shoulder. “ I don’t know where 
ye come from, an’ I don’t know where ye’re 
goin’, but I like ye, ’cause you kin take a joke. 
See the p’int ? ” 

Tom grinned. 

Sure I Some chaps are so thin-skinned 
they get mad at everything,” he said, loftily. 

That’s it. Good-bye, an’ much obleeged I ” 


120 


The Rambler Club’s 


And, with these words, the little constable 
hopped nimbly to the ground, gave a parting 
wave of his hand and walked rapidly away. 

“ By George, that’s a comical one for you,” 
said Tom, to himself. I feel just like a chap 
who has beaten the ball to first. Ha, ha ! I 
wasn’t scorching, though ; that is, not when 
he saw me. But still ” — he smiled rather 
grimly — ‘‘ I’d better be on the safe side and 
crawl the rest of the way.” 

Once more the machine was in motion. 
South Milwaukee soon fell far behind and 
within a half hour he was approaching the 
city. A confused mass of buildings, and an 
occasional chimney rising high above them, 
lifted themselves faintly from obscurity. 
Here and there factory smoke raced with the 
low-hanging clouds and deepened their lower- 
ing surfaces into a still darker tone. 

Tom paid no heed to the depressing air of 
gloom which seemed to pervade all nature. 
He was too anxious to reach the East Water 
Street bridge and bring his lonely trip to a close. 

And suppose the motor yacht Fearless ” 
should not be there, after all ? 

This unpleasant thought, occasionally pene- 


Motor Car 


121 


trating Tom^s armor of confidence, brought 
an expression of deep concern to his face. 

“ Well, in that case, I suppose Idl have 
to play the game some more,” he sighed. 

Anyway, it's up to me to make good ; and I 
will.” 

The outskirts were quickly passed. The 
scattering array of houses gave place to thickly 
built up sections, which, as he progressed, be- 
came more and more lively. At length Tom 
drove along Kinnikinnic Avenue, finally cross- 
ing the river of the same name. Then the 
motor car swung into Clinton Street, and, on 4 
straight road, leaped forward, overtaking and 
nosing past every vehicle bound in the same 
direction. 

Tom, in his impatience, forgot all self-con- 
sciousness, handling the car with a skill al- 
most equal to that of Bob Somers'. His heart 
was beating high with hope and expectancy. 

A deep, hoarse whistle vibrating over the 
air told of traffic on the Milwaukee River. 
The sound brought with it, too, the pleasing 
message that his goal was almost reached. 

Within a few minutes he would know — 
what ? 


122 


The Rambler Club’s 


Up to the limit of speed allowed by law 
dashed the motor car, Tom eagerly straining 
his eyes for the first glimpse of the East 
Water Street bridge, which, according to his 
map, must be just ahead. 

“ Ah ha ; there it is I 

The draw was opening to allow a boat to 
pass. Tom saw the great arms of the struc- 
ture rising higher and higher against the sky. 
To the left the bold, impressive lines of a 
whaleback steamer loomed up, with flags on 
its fore and aft masts straightened out in the 
wind. 

Presently the dull, leaden-looking water of 
the Milwaukee River flashed into view. At 
the East Water Street bridge its course toward 
Lake Michigan changes to a southeasterly di- 
rection. Another moment, and Tom^s eyes 
were roving swiftly over the stream. 

A pang of bitter disappointment shot 
through him — the ‘‘ Fearless was not in 
sight. 

He threw out the clutch and the motor car 
stopped. 

“ Stung again, maybe I groaned the chauf- 
feur. He sat motionless for an instant, deep 


Motor Car 


123 


in thought, then mumbled, What a silly 
chump I am I Come to think of it. Captain 
Bunderley said ‘ Near the bridge/ I can’t do 
much scouting around in this car, so I’ll shoot 
it over to the nearest garage and sprint right 
back.” 

A boy, in answer to his inquiries, directed 
him to cross the bridge and keep straight on 
until Wisconsin Street was reached. 

‘‘ Guess you’ll find one along there,” he 
said. ** Say, ain’t that a whopping big ma- 
chine I How much do you get a week for 
running it ? ” 

Twice as much as nothing,” answered 
Tom, with a faint grin. 

As soon as the bridge settled back into place 
the motor car was put in motion. Tom di- 
rected his course along East Water Street, 
driving with great caution, until he reached 
an important business section. Not far from 
Wisconsin Street he found a garage and left his 
machine. 

The next thing that Tom Clifton did was to 
hunt up a restaurant and refresh himself with 
a good meal. This acted so wonderfully upon 
his spirits that he walked out on the street 


124 


The Rambler Club’s 


feeling renewed confidence in the correctness 
of his deductions. 

‘‘ Bet I’ll find the yacht in half an hour,” 
he said to himself. “ Here’s where the hunt 
begins.” 

But although Tom Clifton thoroughly ex- 
plored the river in the neighborhood of the 
East Water Street bridge, the late afternoon 
found hiin still searching, with hope gone 
down to the zero point. 

I’ve made the circuit of the bases and 
been put out at home,” he muttered. ‘‘ What 
do you think of that for awful luck I ” 


CHAPTER XI 


GETTING A JOB 

Benjamin Rochester was not the only per- 
son in Kenosha into whose brain a germ of 
suspicion concerning the boys had found 
lodgment. The very dapper and polite hotel 
clerk, having overheard scraps of conversation 
between Dave and Victor which plainly indi- 
cated an unusual state of affairs, set his 
thoughts in motion. 

“ It did seem mighty odd to me when that 
long-legged chap beat it,^^ he murmured, softly. 

Queer, too, that a parcel of boys should be 
sporting around in a machine fit for a multi- 
millionaire. I won^t say there’s anything 
wrong about it, but ” 

A step attracted his attention. 

Dave Brandon, wearing his usual good- 
natured smile, had approached the desk. 

I was wondering if I could be accommo- 
dated here for a few days,” began the historian, 

blandly. “ You see ” 

125 


126 The Rambler Club’s 


The clerk smiled affably. He also coughed 
apologetically. His thoughts ran like this : 

Oh, no, my fine fellow, you can't work any 
slick scheme on us." Then he said : 

Very sorry, sir, our terms are strictly cash 
in advance, especially when luggage has been 
taken away. Of course I don’t doubt that 
you’re all right," he added, in a tone which 
expressed all the doubt in the world. 

“ Oh ! " exclaimed Dave. 

“ Yes," said the clerk. 

The historian remained thoughtful for a 
moment. 

Pardon me," he said, quietly turning 
away. 

He looks like a pretty good sort," mused 
the clerk, glancing at Dave’s retreating form. 

Still, you never can tell ; usually they’re the 
slickest kind." 

A few minutes later Dave reappeared. 

When Victor Collins comes in will you 
kindly give him this? " he said, handing the 
clerk a sealed envelope. 

Once outside, Dave, with a twinkle in his 
eye, began to walk as though he had some 
important mission to perform. 


Motor Car 


127 


“ Well, well I ” His smile broadened. “ I 
was certainly never placed in such a remark- 
able situation before. It has an element of 
grim humor in it, too. But for this hun- 
gry feeling I'd laugh out loud. Stranded I 
Think of the fearfulness of it 1 Actually 
stranded I " 

Dave’s reflections, however, did not drive 
away his cheerful expression. 

“ Now that the chaps have disappeared,” he 
mused, their kindly support must needs be 
withdrawn. Here I am, left high and dry on 
the shores of adversity, with two awful alter- 
natives facing me : to borrow, or not to bor- 
row ; to depend upon myself, or not to de- 
pend upon myself.” 

The humor of it all appealed irresistibly to 
the historian ; he laughed to himself, although 
his eyes were turned longingly toward a res- 
taurant in the window of which a tempting 
collection of food products was displayed. 

There’s no telling how or when we fellows 
will get together again,” mused Dave. Some- 
thing has to be done quickly. I believe I’ve 
struck the best plan. Anyway, it won’t do 
any harm to try it. Although ” — he laughed 


128 


The Rambler Club’s 


aloud — '' I reckon little Vic will be consider- 
ably surprised — even shocked/^ 

Dave had completely thrown off his usually 
languid air. He walked briskly, with a cer- 
tain look in his eye which his chums would 
have known meant a determination not to be 
swerved. 

He slackened his rapid pace only when a 
group of circus tents finally appeared in view. 
A few minutes later he crossed the lot, direct- 
ing his steps toward the mess tent. 

He found it crowded with men and women 
seated before rough board tables. A savory 
odor filling the enclosure made Dave sniff the 
air with keen relish. It also served to increase 
his tremendous desire for a good square meal. 
Several waiters in white caps and aprons, 
balancing trays, hustled along the narrow 
aisles. A constant rattle of dishes and the 
jingle of knives and forks mingled in with 
the buzz of conversation. Sometimes a bawl- 
ing voice sharply punctuated this medley of 
sound, and now one close at hand suddenly 
roared out : 

Hey I Watcher want ? ” 

Dave looked around, to find himself the 


Motor Car 


129 


target for many pairs of staring eyes. It was 
a little embarrassing — very little, however. 
He looked over the rows of grinning faces and 
was about to reply when a boy not far off sud- 
denly popped up from his seat. 

“ Well, if it ain^t Jumbo ag’in ! 

A roar of mirth echoed through the mess 
tent. Sallies began flying thick and fast. 
Dave, however, stood his ground. 

** I’m looking for Mr. Whiffln,” he said, 
calmly. 

Joe Rodgers, arrayed in the reddest of red 
vests, put his small form in motion, and, with 
remarkable disregard for the feet and shins 
about him, pushed his way forward. 

Hey I ” screeched Joe, shaking his fist at 
a particularly loud-voiced person who was 
busy hurling questions at Dave. “ Let that 
’ere feller alone. I’m his guardeen.” 

Where is Mr. Whiffln, Joe ? ” asked Dave. 

I dunno. But if ye hear a row goin’ on 
anywheres steer fur it, an’ you’ll find him,” 
answered Joe. “ What d’ye want with ’im, 
anyway ? ” 

Dave, uttering a sigh of relief, withdrew 
from the curious stares, the loud voices and 


130 


The Rambler Club’s 


general noise and confusion which pervaded 
the tent. Joe was at his side. 

“ What d’ye want with Whiffin, Jumbo? 
he repeated. 

“ Joe/’ remarked Dave — he placed his hand 
on the lad’s broad shoulder — if you don’t 
mind, I’d rather you’d call me Dave — Dave 
Brandon’s my name.” 

/'All right. I’ll call you Dave Jumbo,” 
said Joe, gravely. 

The historian burst into a hearty laugh. 

" Dave Jumbo ? ” 

" Oh, I’m wise to what ye wants, Dave.” 
Joe stared earnestly into the other’s face for 
an instant. " Ye’re a good feller, all right — I 
kin see that,” he exclaimed. " Say, — what’s 
became o’ the little grouch ? ” 

Dave explained. 

" Gone off for to eat, eh ? Well, did ye take 
sich a fancy to Whiffin ye couldn’t stay away 
from the show, eh ? ” 

“ Joe, I’m looking for a job.” 

Joe’s eyes bulged out with real astonish- 
ment. 

" What — what ! ” he gasped. " You’re kid- 
din’ me, for sure.” 


Motor Car 


»3i 


Oh, no ; I mean it, Joe.’^ 

But say, what does a feller wearin^ clothes 
like them you’ve got on want with a job?” 
The idea apparently staggered Mister ” Joe 
Rodgers. He thrust his hands into his 
trousers pockets. “ Aw, git out I ” he sniffed, 
after a moment of deep reflection. “ Ye can’t 
git across with no sich stuff as that.” 

It took Dave five minutes of valuable time 
to make Joe credit the earnestness of his 
intention. But once convinced, Joe imme- 
diately became the historian’s enthusiastic 
ally. 

“ But — but I don’t believe ye kin do it,” 
he said, doubtfully. 

Lead me to Whiffin, and we’ll see,” 
laughed Dave. 

After a short search they found the man- 
ager of Spudger’s Peerless ” at the entrance 
to the main tent. 

‘"Well?” he demanded, as Dave spoke up. 

I understand that you need the services of 
a good barker,” began Dave. 

What’s that to you ? ” demanded Peter 
Whiffin, in a querulous tone, arching his eye- 
brows in surprise. 


132 The Rambler Club’s 

“ Only that I’d like to have the job myself, 
sir.” 

The manager looked at the stout boy as 
though he had never heard anything quite so 
strange in all his life. 

'‘What?’' he snarled. "You — you — get 
out ; go away from here a thousand miles I ” 

" Give 'im a chanct, Mr. Whiffin,” pleaded 
Joe. " Maybe he kin make good.” 

" Make good, nothin’ ! ” growled the other. 
" There ain’t anything to prewent your goin’.” 

" Only a powerful disinclination to drag 
myself away from Spudger’s Peerless Circus 
and Menagerie,” laughed Dave. " Come now, 
Mr. Whiffin ” — he changed his jocular tone to 
one of seriousness — " I know that a barker is 
absolutely necessary to the success of your 
show. As Joe says, give me a chance.” 

Mr. Peter Whiffin seemed to hesitate. He 
looked sharply at the boy ; then, reaching a 
sudden decision, crooked his forefinger and 
turned on his heel. 

Dave, with Joe not far behind him, followed 
the manager into the menagerie tent. 

A really delightful odor of sawdust filled 
the air. Colossus, Titan and Nero stood in a 


Motor Car 


133 


corner, restlessly swinging their trunks, while 
in the open dens lined up on either side savage 
animals paced ceaselessly to and fro. 

Now see here,’' began Peter Whiffin, cock- 
ing his head to one side and looking very 
fierce indeed, “ I wouldn’t listen to yer yawp 
for eight seconds but for two things : first, 
you’ve got the biggest nerve of any boy I ever 
see ; an’ second, I do need a barker. But 
I’m from Missouri — if yer know what that 
means.” 

Want to be shown, eh ? ” laughed Dave. 

He stepped off a few paces, and, with a 
wink at Joe, began a steady fiow of eloquence, 
describing Spudger’s great show in the highly 
imaginative language of a press agent. 

‘‘ I’ve heard worse,” commented Peter 
Whiffin, grudgingly, attempting to hide his 
satisfaction. “ Give us another round.” 

An expression of surprise on the manager’s 
face gradually deepened. Dave, thoroughly 
imbued with the humorous side of the pro- 
ceeding, and determined to do himself credit, 
had managed to cast aside all feelings of embar- 
rassment. He raised his voice until its strong, 
clear notes fairly rang through the tent. 


»34 


The Rambler Club’s 


“ But did ye ever speak before a mob ? 

I’ve recited in school many times/’ an- 
swered Dave. 

“ Well, this job ain’t like speakin’ to a lot 
o’ kids, mind yer,” warned Mr. Whiffin. “ I 
reckon you’ll feel like takin’ to the tall timber 
when ye faces a real crowd.” 

‘‘ I’ll risk it,” said Dave, in a confident 
manner. 

“ An’ I’m game enough to take a chance on 
ye.” Peter Whiffin cast an angry look toward 
Joe Rodgers, whose joy at the decision seemed 
altogether out of proportion to its importance. 

Ye kin try it this afternoon. But ye’ll need 
to git the biggest kind o’ a hustle on ye ; the 
show’s goin’ to start mighty soon.” 

“ All right, Mr. Whiffin. What’s the pay ? ” 

“ For this afternoon an’ to-night two dollars 
an’ grub, in case ye make good.” 

Whiffin led the way to the entrance, and, as 
they walked outside, Dave’s eyes ran over the 
lot. A large number of grown people, as well 
as children were headed toward it. He saw 
that haste was, indeed, necessary. 

“ I’ll skip over to the mess tent now,’^ he 
said, briskly, *‘and ” 


Motor Car 


135 

What I Ye ain’t had no grub yit? ” ex- 
claimed Mr. Peter Whiffin, in astonishment. 

“ No I But ” 

Well, don’t waste your time in jawin’. 
Take ’im over, you Joe. Then git right back 
on the job, or you’ll hear somethin’ ye don’t 
like. Report to me in fifteen minutes, young 
feller.” 

‘‘That’s Whiffin,” growled Joe, as the two 
promptly walked away. “ Him an’ me don’t 
hit it nohow. Say, Jumbo — I mean Dave — 
you’ve got nerve, all right. If ye kin chuck 
the talk to the crowd as well as ye did afore 
Whiffin you’ll have Jack Gray a-guessin’.” 

The mess tent was almost deserted when 
Dave, escorted by Joe Rodgers, to the amaze- 
ment of several waiters, a clown, and a few 
members of the “ Celebrated Randolpho 
family,” wizards of the flying trapeze, walked 
up to a table and sat down. 

“What ees this?” murmured Randolpho, 
Senior, who, however, was no relation to the 
other “ Randolphos.” “ Aha, it ees the same 
fat boy I have see here before.” 

Joe Rodgers immediately made Mr. Whiffin’s 
orders known to those in charge, and in a few 


136 The Rambler Club’s 

minutes the historian was served by a grinning 
and much mystified waiter. 

It is very likely that Victor Collins^ fastidi- 
ous tastes would have caused him to sniff at 
the circus fare, but Dave had roughed it too 
long in the open to be over-particular. So he 
began to eat with a heartiness that increased 
the grin on the waiter^s face. 

Ah,^^ murmured Dave, a short time later, 
“ depending upon one's self is the real thing, 
after all." 


CHAPTER XII 


THE NEW BARKER 

“ Yes, monsieur, I have, what you call it, 
voyaged much.’’ Randolpho, Senior, whose 
curiosity was too strong for him to resist, had 
taken a place by Dave Brandon’s side. You 
have of the Cirque d’Hiver in Paree heard, 
no doubt, monsieur ? ” 

Dave nodded. Winter Circus, we say in 
English,” he replied. 

Yes. I have performed there before crowds 
enormous.” 

Do you like this country?” asked Dave. 

Monsieur Randolpho’s agreeable voice was 
silent as he pondered over the question. 
Presently he said : 

Ah, it ees a great place — such wonderful 
peoples. Nozzing for them is too hard. You 
have never bark before, and yet — ah, you 
go?” 

Dave had hastily arisen. 

I’d like to continue the conversation, 
137 


138 The Rambler Club’s 

Monsieur Randolpho/^ he remarked, pleas- 
antly, “ but I haven’t an instant to lose.’' 

Ah, you must of the show something learn, 
ees that not it ? Well, I wish you a grand 
success.” 

As Dave started off in search of Mr. Whiffin 
a rather curious sensation began stealing over 
him. The lot had assumed an appearance of 
life and gaiety such as it had perhaps never 
known before in all its existence. The insist- 
ent cries of peanut, pretzel and lemonade 
venders, the shrill yells of children, the rough 
voices of men calling to one another and the 
awesome snarls and growls which occasionally 
came from the menagerie tent kept up a never- 
ceasing din. 

And but a short time before Dave had been 
merely an outsider ; but now — that meal sealed 
the contract — he was to be until night a part 
and parcel of “ Spudger’s Peerless ” and some- 
thing destined to belong to the public gaze. 
The barker’s stand before the main entrance 
seemed to assume an importance altogether 
unwarranted by either its size or gaudily 
decorated surface. 

One quick glance disclosed Mr. Whiffin 


Motor Car 


>39 


not far away, gesticulating, his thin, harsh 
voice raised to a pitch of unpleasant shrillness. 

“ Hey, you,'^ he yelled, on catching sight of 
Dave, ‘‘ step a step this way. I'm a-waiiin'.” 

As the newly-engaged barker approached, 
he saw a much-bewhiskered gentleman, florid 
of complexion, apparently short of breath, and 
very wide of girth sticking close to the 
manager's side. 

“ Here's the fellow, Mr. Spudger," ex- 
claimed Peter Whiffin, pointing a bony fore- 
flnger toward the oncoming Dave. “ Says he 
kin help us out, but I ain’t bankin' on it." 

The “great and only " Ollie Spudger unbent 
his ponderous form and began to examine 
Dave as a connoisseur might search for the 
good points of a rare piece of statuary. 

“ Him ? — He don't look the part to me, 
Whiffln," he said, with refreshing candor. 

“ His loss if he ain't there with the goods," 
commented Peter, shortly. “Listen, young 
feller ; here's what I want ye to git over to the 
audience, an' git it over strong, mind ye." 

Talkingrapidly, he checked off on his fingers 
point after point, while Mr. Spudger nodded 
his head in unison with the motions. 


140 


The Rambler Club’s 


“ I understand,” said Dave. His eyes trav- 
eled mechanically in the direction of the 
stand. “ Shall I begin now ? 

No I Come this way.’^ 

The historian followed the circus men in- 
side the menagerie tent, where he discovered 
that a space between two cages had been in- 
closed by a long strip of canvas. 

WhifiSn drew aside the flap and bade him 
enter. 

Dave^s eyes immediately took in a pile of 
garments resting on a stool. 

Peter Whiflin selected a very red coat, plen- 
tifully supplied with spangles, and, as he held 
it at arm’s length, the slightest movement 
sent them shaking and glittering in the dull 
gray light which came from above. 

A flne piece of goods,” said Mr. Whiffln, 
admiringly. Slide inside, young feller.” 

What ! ” gasped Dave. 

Put it on,” ordered Whiffin, peremptorily. 

The stout boy, with a broad grin, took off 
his coat and made an effort to follow instruc- 
tions. It required the services of both Spudger 
and Whiffin, however, to force the garment 
around his ample shoulders, and during this 


Motor Car 


141 

operation every seam, in turn, seemed ready 
to burst in angry protest. 

Now ye look a bit better,’^ exclaimed Mr. 
Spudger, at length, as, somewhat winded with 
his exertions, he stood off to stare at Dave 
with an eye of approval. 

Stick this top-piece on yer, young feller,^’ 
came from Peter Whiffin. 

He handed over a little red cap with still 
redder tassels on the sides. 

I certainly got myself into something 
when I took this job,'’ laughed Dave, care- 
fully adj usting the head-gear. What else do 
I have to change, Mr. Whiffin?" 

Your expression — that’s all," growled 
Peter. I’m goin’. Jist wait around the 
tent somewheres until the ^ Ten Thousand 
Dollar ’ band reels off a few tunes ; an’ when 
I flash the signal git your nerves together an’ 
come." 

An’ don’t let any bunch o’ kids rattle 
you," advised Mr. Spudger, following his 
manager with ponderous steps. 

Left alone, Dave paid no attention to the 
men passing to and fro, but set his thoughts 
busily to work on the composition of his an- 


142 


The Rambler Club’s 


nouncement. Then, suddenly, noticing a 
small, round hole in the canvas he walked 
quickly toward it. In another moment his 
eye was applied to the aperture. 

He could see a considerable number of 
people crowding before the entrance and also 
Spudger’s Ten Thousand Dollar Peerless 
Band occupying a raised platform near the 
barker's seat. 

Even quiet, self-contained Dave felt his 
nerves tingling curiously. The ordeal of 
waiting tried his patience. He felt that his 
throat, for some reason or other, was becom- 
ing unpleasantly husky. 

And now, after much preliminary tooting, 
the band struck up. A grand crash was fol- 
lowed by several resounding bangs ; then the 
musicians were safely off. The brass easily 
predominated, almost drowning the well- 
meaning attempts of the others. 

When we started on that motor car trip 
how little I ever expected to run into any- 
thing like this," murmured Dave, softly. “ I 
certainly do wonder where those boys could 
have gone." 

‘‘ Hey there ! " 


Motor Car 


143 


He recognized the rasping voice. 

“ All right, sir.’^ 

The great moment had arrived. 

A strong effort stilled the quick beating of 
his heart. Walking with a firm step he 
reached Mr. Whiffin’s side. 

‘‘ Up with ye ! An^ chuck it over strong, 
now I ’’ commanded the manager. 

The chilly wind blowing hard across the 
lots swayed the great canvas paintings before 
the entrance and violently fluttered a multi- 
tude of flags and pennants floating from the 
top of ridge poles and strung along various 
ropes. 

Even above the vigorous strains of music, 
Dave could hear a curious murmur run 
through the crowd as he stepped upon the 
stand. In an instant every eye was appar- 
ently focused upon him. He found it rather 
diflicult to face unconcernedly that battery of 
looks expressive of curiosity, anticipation, or, 
perhaps, dreadful to think of, derision. 

Almost mechanically the new barker ob- 
served the shifting currents of humanity, one 
moment massed together, and the next flow- 
ing over the lot to form in scattered groups 


144 The Rambler Club’s 

before various points of interest. It was very 
picturesque and interesting. Many girls, in 
their bright-colored dresses, added a touch 
of color to the scene. 

Dave became so absorbed in contemplating 
the kaleidoscopic effects that he almost forgot 
to feel embarrassed. But a shrill screech com- 
ing from a youthful throat just below brought 
him abruptly back to the prominence of his 
position. 

‘^Say somethin^ or git the hook I 

And just then Mr. Ollie Spudger, by a wave 
of his big right hand, signaled to the fiddling 
leader of the Ten Thousand Dollar band. 

With another terrifying crash and bang, the 
playing suddenly stopped. A stillness, ap- 
palling by contrast, immediately seemed to 
hover over the surroundings. Dave, mo- 
mentarily off his guard, found his wits acting 
in a way that wits sometimes do when called 
upon to perform their duties under extraor- 
dinary conditions. Words which just a few 
seconds before were clearly imprinted on his 
mental vision had completely vanished, and 
he stood gazing awkwardly into the faces of a 
staring, noisy mob. 


Motor Car 


>45 


Below and at his back, he was conscious of 
the presence of Mr. Spudger and his manager, 
realizing, too, that the eyes of each were fast- 
ened upon him with eager intensity. 

That instant of silence was unendurable. 
But a noise producer was at hand. A large 
disc of metal hung between two supports on 
his right, while a wooden mallet lay on a 
shelf close by. 

Dave got into action. 

Bang, bang I A series of deafening crashes, 
rivaling in volume those produced by the 
brass in the Ten Thousand, immediately 
swung off into space. Again and again the 
clanging notes swelled into a din of uproar- 
ious proportions. 

Every straggler, apparently, within hearing 
distance came rushing up, until a dense crowd 
had massed itself before him. 

Dave was once more in full control of his 
faculties. Words began popping into his head 
in such generous numbers that before the 
notes of the gong had ceased their musical 
reverberations he was addressing his audience. 

Ladies and gentlemen,*’ he began, in a 
clear, resonant voice, “ it is my pleasure and 


The Rambler Club’s 


146 

privilege to call your attention to the great 
and mar-velous features of Spudger’s Great 
Combined Peerless Circus and Menagerie. 
We have here to-day a stupendous and superb 
ag-gre-gation of wonders collected from all 
quarters of the globe by Mr. Ollie Spudger. 
The expense was e-normous. 

‘‘ At each and every performance there is to 
be seen a grand exhibition of a-renic pomp 
and splendor, together with visions of inspir- 
ing beauty. Golden chariots drawn by huge 
African elephants form part of a glittering, 
jeweled and costumed army rivaling those 
gorgeous pro-cessions which, centuries ago, 
filed with majestic pomp before the emperors 
in the Coliseum of ancient Rome.’’ 

Bully for you ! That’s going some I ” 
screeched the voice of Mister ” Joe Rodgers 
from the front row. 

Dave hit the gong a resounding crack. 

“ I call attention to Ormond de Sylveste ! ” 
he cried, “ the champion bareback rider of 
the world, in his thrilling exhibition of eques- 
trian skill ; to Tobanus, the renowned sword 
swallower, in a mysterious and a-mazing act. 
And besides these two un-equaled stars there 


Motor Car 


HI 


is the Randolpho troupe of acrobats, who, in 
an as-ton-ishing series of gyrations, set at defi- 
ance all laws of gravitation.’^ 

Dave paused impressively, letting his 
pointer come to rest on the broad chest of 
Adolphus’ counterfeit presentment. 

“ Then there are other attractions alone 
worth double the price of admission. This 
most ex-tra-ordinary giant, Adolphus, is a 
youth, still growing, and promising to eclipse 
in height all giants of any era. Zingar, the 
famous dwarf, has caused the greatest sensa- 
tion wherever shown. Mr. Ollie Spudger’s 
standing offer of ten thousand dollars for his 
equal in any country has never been taken up.” 

A buzz of comments arose. Dave waited 
for a few moments, then resumed : 

The menagerie is an exhibition in itself — 
a great collection of savage, fear-in-spir-ing 
animals, in gilded lairs, bringing to your very 
doors the inhabitants of the jungle — an ag- 
gre-gation of fe-rocious quadrupeds without 
parallel in the country. 

And all this can be seen for the small sum 
of ten cents, just one dime, an amount well 
within the means of every man, woman or 


148 The Rambler Club’s 


child of Kenosha. Remember — ten cents — 
just one dime, to see all the curiosities. Re- 
served seats up to twenty-five cents. Pass 
along — get your tickets — get your tickets I 

Dave vigorously hammered the gong. 
Then the '' Ten Thousand Dollars,’^ obeying 
another signal from Mr. Spudger, sent up a 
blast that threatened the safety of ear-drums. 

Joe Rodgers, with a shrill Gee, this must 
be a bully show, fellers ! flung over his 
shoulder, made a dive for the ticket wagon, 
followed by several young men whom Dave 
had noticed about the circus. 

As though they possessed some strange 
magnetic force, many spectators seemed to be 
drawn irresistibly after them. The tent soon 
began swallowing up a steady flow of human- 
ity, and when interest waned Dave promptly 
resumed his speaking. 

He rose to greater heights this time, his 
clear, strong voice compelling attention. He 
told of the wonderful performing elephants ; 
of Mademoiselle Hazel, queen of the slack 
wire, in her great danger-defying act, and of 
Professor Lopus and his extraordinary troupe 
of trained horses. 


Motor Car 


149 


Joe and his associates were on hand, and, as 
before, at the important moment, started a 
stampede toward the “ box office/’ 

Another repetition of the performance left 
standing at the entrance only a few disconso- 
late-looking people. Even Mr. Peter Whiffin 
could not altogether conceal his satisfaction at 
the success of Spudger’s new barker. 


CHAPTER XIII 


UNDER THE BIG TOP 

What's that you say — a note for me?" 
queried Victor Collins. 

Yes, sir." The dapper hotel clerk laid a 
rather undue emphasis on the word “ Sir." — 
“ Here it is." 

Victor took the envelope, studied the in- 
scription, then held it up to the light, and, as 
all these proceedings gave him no clue as to 
the contents, he presently tore it open. 

I wonder what this means," he murmured. 
^^Gee; the big boob!" he exclaimed, half- 
aloud, an instant later. “ Now what do you 
know about that? " 

No bad news, I hope?" ventured the in- 
quisitive clerk. 

Nothing that will get in the papers, I 
guess," growled Victor, as he began to read 
these lines a second time : 

Dear Vic : — 

Desperate cases require desperate rem- 
edies. The absent food treatment does not suit 
150 


Motor Car 


J51 

my particular constitution. Really, I feel 
hungry enough to eat brass tacks. 

“ My adventurous career seems to be not yet 
over, so you will find me at ‘ Spudger’s Peer- 
less.^ Our stay in Kenosha is likely to be a 
good thing for the paper industry after all. 

“ Your friend, 

Dave 

Well, now, I’d like to know why in thunder 
he’s gone to the circus.” 

The frown on Victor’s face deepened. With 
a curt nod to the clerk he walked outside. 

By George, it wasn’t much advantage to 
me when Blakelets steered this bunch of great 
depending-upon-themselves fellows up to our 
front door,” he thought, almost savagely. 

Wish he hadn’t stopped until they were a 
thousand miles away. Everything has gone 
wrong ; dandy motor boat trip knocked in the 

head, and here I am Oh, gee, but it does 

make me tired.” 

Then Victor stopped short, struck by a 
sudden idea which made his eyes fairly flash. 

“ I do wonder, now, if this scrawl and all 
that howl about being broke is just a big, silly 
bluff. Maybe the Indian is taking in the 
show and expects me to come chasing over 


152 The Rambler Club’s 

after him. Well, I simply won’t do it — that’s 
all.” 

Victor’s jaws snapped together. Within a 
few minutes his mind was made up. 

‘‘I’ll skip over to Uncle Ralph’s,” he mut- 
tered. “ Maybe Phil Malone is there.” 

Captain Bunderley, being a bachelor, em- 
ployed Phil as housekeeper and general utility 
man. 

In half an hour Victor reached his uncle’s 
residence, which stood back on a wide avenue. 
A graveled path led across a fine lawn. 
Tastefully arranged fiower beds and little 
cedars planted here and there gave quite an 
air of elegance to the surroundings. Over the 
pillared porch clinging vines swayed in the 
wind, the green leaves thickly interspersed 
with those of a golden and ruddy hue. 

One glance at the tightly closed mansion 
was enough to convince Victor that his 
trouble had been for nothing. An air of 
melancholy silence seemed to brood over the 
place. Dry autumn leaves bestrewed the 
porch and steps, every now and then appar- 
ently becoming endowed with life as they 
rustled away for a few feet. 


Motor Car 


>53 


Impatiently Victor bounded up the steps, 
ril ring, anyway,^' he said to himself. 

As the lad expected, there was no response. 
Nothing doing,” he growled. Hasn’t 
this been a real peach of a day I But I’m not 
done with the Rambler Club yet.” 

Victor didn’t enjoy himself during the rest 
of the afternoon. He visited the wharf again, 
only to find the “ Fearless ” still missing, and 
finally, tired and disgusted, wandered off to 
the public library. 

The afternoon waned ; then night threw 
a mantle of blackness over the city. After 
supper at a convenient restaurant, he decided 
to take a flying look at “ Spudger’s Peerless,” 
then return to the hotel. 

A bleak wind continually moaned and 
howled, seizing upon the telegraph wires as 
an instrument to send forth musical chords. 
Many of the streets were lonely and frigidly 
silent. Victor, not accustomed to being out 
at night, passed shadowy, mysterious-looking 
corners with a touch of fear tugging at his 
heart. He was glad indeed to see a fantastic 
array of lights coming into view and the 
circus tents faintly luminous against the sky. 


'54 


The Rambler Club’s 


At length he found himself among the 
throngs crowding toward the barker’s stand. 
And once there the lawyer’s son received the 
surprise of his life. It was difficult to credit 
either his eyes or ears. 

He stopped short, to stare in utter bewilder- 
ment at a familiar face and form. 

“ Why — why, it’s Brownie — Brownie — sure 
as I live ! ” he gasped. Well, by George I 

No words could quite express Victor Col- 
lins’ astonishment. He felt, too, a pang of 
disappointment in the realization that his 
plan for humbling Dave had so completely 
failed. He edged his way further forward, 
listening eagerly to every word of the barker’s 
stirring appeal. 

Victor had never thought that in one per- 
son could two such different manners exist. 
It was no longer the easy-going, indolent 
Dave he saw before him, but a bold, fearless 
lad who always had a ready retort on his 
tongue for any quip hurled at him from 
the audience. 

A different feeling regarding the “ Big 
Indian ” came into Victor’s brain in spite of 
the fact that it wasn’t entirely welcome ; he 


Motor Car 


‘55 

saw Dave in an entirely new light. It made 
him think. 

There was too much going on all around, 
however, for his present train of thought to 
keep long on the track. The gasoline torches 
of the barker’s stand and the lights from various 
booths devoted to the purpose of supplying the 
multitude with food and drink threw a strange, 
fitful glare over the ever-moving crowds. 

“ Get your hot frankfurters I Peanuts, 
pretzels and lemonade I ” rose crisply above 
the babel of sounds. 

Amid the general noise and confusion, Vic- 
tor began to lose sight of his grievances. 

As Dave finished his “ oration,” seized the 
mallet and hammered lustily on the gong, 
Victor felt his heart responding so strongly to 
its wild, clanging notes that the tide moving 
toward the ticket wagon carried him along, a 
willing victim. 

“ Hello, Brandon ; hello I ” he cried, eagerly. 
He felt even a touch of pride in knowing 
so prominent a personage. “ I say, Bran- 
don ” 

“ Have the correct change, gentlemen I 
Have the correct change I ” 


156 The Rambler Club’s 

The brusk voice of the ticket seller broke 
in upon his sentence. 

Victor, feeling himself being elbowed and 
jostled aside, scarcely heard the barker’s hearty 
greeting. Next instant a ticket was in his 
hand, and the next after that found him pass- 
ing the portal of Spudger’s.” 

The sight of gilded cages with wild animals 
behind the iron bars, of three huge elephants 
swaying their unwieldy bodies and trunks, 
of flags and bunting and numerous other 
things apparently inseparable from circus life 
made the frowning lines on Victor’s face en- 
tirely disappear. 

“ Well, I’ll see the show anyway,” he mur- 
mured. Gee, won’t it be a regular lark I ” 

Going from cage to cage he kicked up the 
sawdust in pure delight. Spudger’s collection 
of zodlogical specimens contained a lion, two 
tigers, a jaguar, three pumas, a brown bear 
and two coyotes. Occasionally a sullen roar 
or an angry snarl seemed to indicate that 
several members of the animal kingdom were 
in a very uncomfortable state of mind. 

The tent was rapidly Ailing up, but Victor, 
having a reserved seat coupon, did not hurry. 


Motor Car 


157 


Hello, Buster I 

He turned quickly, to gaze into the grin- 
ning face of “ Mister ’’ Joe Rodgers. 

Joe looked a bit more respectable than he 
had during the morning hours, but not 
enough so to make the lawyer’s son feel any 
great desire to continue his acquaintance. 

“ Well?” he said, coldly. 

Say, kid, where did you drop from ? ” 
Then, without waiting for a response, he added. 

Ain’t that big jumbo a corker — ain’t he 
though ? Whiffin had orter be pleased. Say, 
that there feller knows every word in the 
lingo, don’t he ? ” 

To be addressed in such a way by a 
mere water carrier, especially before so many 
people, made Victor feel highly disgusted. 
With a curt nod, he turned away, and just on 
the instant Joe bawled out loudly : 

Hey, Dave — hey ! Here’s yer little Buster, 
right here.” 

Victor, intensely indignant, saw the stout 
boy, who now wore his own coat, attracted by 
the hail and edging his way through the 
crowd toward them. Dave’s face was beam- 
ing. 


158 The Rambler Club’s 

Mighty glad to see you, Vic,^^ he exclaimed, 
heartily. He held out his hand. Can’t stay 
but a minute ; I’m due on the stand again. 
Surprised, Vic? What did you say, Joe ? A 
bully spiel ? — thanks I — Sir ? 

This last word was spoken to a thin, mel- 
ancholy-looking person who had just stepped 
up by the group. 

“ My hand, sir ! Upon my word, I have 
yet to hear the eq’al o’ what you done in the 
barkin’ line to-day,” said the man, in a deep- 
throated voice. “ My hand, sir I ” 

Dave took it. 

Yes, sir ; it’s as far ahead of most of ’em as 
my act eclipses all the rest.” 

“ So you take some part in the show, eh ? ” 
remarked Dave, with interest. ‘‘ What’s your 
specialty ? ” 

The other’s sad visage brightened. 

Spudger’s wouldn’t be much without me,” 
he confided. I’m Ormond de Sylveste.” 

Goodness — Ormond de Sylveste ? ” piped 
Victor. 

Yes, sir I An’ if anybody kin beat me 
a-ridin’ I ain’t never seen ’em — fact. Whiffin 
knows how waluable I am to the show. Why, 


Motor Car 


159 

Tve had ^irn so skeered thinkin' I was about 

to leave that he '' 

Hey there, Bill Potts, what^s the matter 
with ye ? ” Peter Whiffin, unobserved by any 
of the three, had approached, his face lined 
with an astonishing number of wrinkles. “ If 
yer don’t git right out o’ this here tent an’ 
stay out. Bill Potts, I’ll dock yer for double 
the time.” 

All this was spoken in a low tone ; but it 
proved sufficiently strong to induce Monsieur 
Ormond de Sylveste, otherwise known as Bill 
Potts, to leave the spot in undignified haste. 

An’ it’s time for you to climb up ag’in,” 
added Mr. Whiffin to Dave. An’, as for you, 
ye lazy, good-for-nuthin’ scamp ” — he faced 
Joe Rodgers — “ beat it I Ye’d have Spudger’s 
a-supportin’ ye in idleness, I reckon.” 

With a grumble of disapprobation, Joe 
obeyed, while Dave, who was also about to 
leave, stopped, as Mr. Whiffin again spoke up : 

“ See here, young feller ” — the manager put 
on his most pleasant expression — “ ye ain’t 
done so bad. Here’s your money and a couple 
o’ good reserved seats besides ” 

Thank you,” said Dave, politely. 


i6o The Rambler Club’s 

Jack Gray ain't got over his cold yit. I 
think you’ll have to go along with the show 
to-night.” 

“ Oh I ” exclaimed Dave, a bit startled at the 
prospect. 

“Yes. Why not? You was broke, an’ I 
helped ye out ; don’t deny it now.” 

“ I wouldn’t attempt to do so, Mr. Whiffin.” 

“ You kin do me a good turn, this time. 
We’re bound for Racine.” 

Dave looked at Victor. He felt the respon- 
sibility for his welfare which had been thrust 
upon his shoulders. 

“ I can’t leave my friend, Mr. Whiffin,” he 
said, slowly. 

“ Let ’im come along.” 

“ That’s the scheme,” cried Victor, quite 
delighted. “ Sure thing, Brandon.” The 
idea of his actually traveling with a circus 
took his fancy by storm. “ Say yes, you big 
Indian.” 

“ I knew you’d be reasonable,” exclaimed 
Whiffin. “ Then it’s all settled? ” 

“ If Victor agrees, I suppose so,” answered 
Dave. “ You’re sure now, Vic? ” 

“ Of course I am.” 


Motor Car 


i6i 


Good ! ” The manager even smiled. 
^‘How much did you pay for your ticket, 
young feller? 

A quarter/^ answered Victor. 

“ Here it is.^’ A coin was thrust into his 
hand. Then Mr. Peter Whiffin exclaimed, 
briefly, to Dave : “ Hustle back to your job 
now. Ifll see ye later.” And he was off. 

Victor had been primed with numerous 
questions to hurl at the Rambler but was 
forced to wait until Dave reappeared, fifteen 
minutes later, this time in his street clothes. 

“ I neednT talk any more now,” he ex- 
plained. Mr. Spudger says there are as 
many people inside the tent as the law al- 
lows.” 

Victor soon learned all he wished to know. 
Unconsciously, his manner toward Dave had 
undergone a decided change. A boy who 
could calmly face an audience the way the 

Big Indian ” had done was worthy of a cer- 
tain respect. An idea — but a very vague idea, 
it is true — of his own limitations, of his own 
shortcomings, for the first time, perhaps, stole 
into his head. 

In a small tent adjoining the menagerie 


The Rambler Club’s 


j 62 

the two found that Adolphus and Zingar were 
the principal attractions. They had scarcely 
entered when the youthful giant recognized 
them, and, disregarding all rules of profes- 
sional ethics, called loudly for both to come 
over. 

Little Georgy ” was arrayed in a gorgeous 
military uniform of no known epoch, plenti- 
fully besprinkled with gilt braid and big 
shiny buttons. A sword dangled from his 
side, while a hat suggestive of Napoleon’s 
famous head-gear was perched on his head. 

Goodness I I’m glad to see you again,’’ 
warbled the giant, in his childish treble. 

S mi tty says — er — er — I mean Zingar says 
Potts — er — er — I mean Ormond told him 
you’d made a big hit. Ouch — look out I ” 

An inquisitive urchin, having decided in 
his own mind that Adolphus was perched upon 
wooden supports, had boldly, but without 
malice, deliberately kicked him on the shins. 

“ S’cuse me, feller,” he said, apologetically. 
‘‘ It’s all you, ain’t it? My, oh my, what a 
whopper I Don’t I wisht I was you.” 

It’s all in the point of view,” laughed 
Dave. ''We’ll see you after the show, 


Motor Car 


163 

George. Mr. Whiffin’s close about, you know. 
He might be kind of peevish if he saw us 
talking together. How are you, Zingar ? ’’ 

The dwarf stood a trifle over three feet in 
height, and his diminutive person was also 
arrayed in gorgeous attire. A little round 
bullet head, with gray, whimsical eyes and a 
laughing mouth gave him the jolliest appear- 
ance of anybody connected with the Peerless 
show. He made a peculiar little curtsey to 
the boys, but, being a real professional curio 
of many years^ experience, did not condescend 
to speak. 

The two soon followed the crowd into the 
main tent, which presented a gala appearance. 
Every available seat seemed to be taken and 
at every point of vantage a few late arrivals 
were standing. 

The members of the Ten Thousand Dol- 
lar now filed into their places, and a few 
preliminary notes mingled in with all those 
peculiar sounds which seem inseparable from 
a great gathering — the swelling murmur of 
many voices, the shrill screech of some bold 
urchin and the monotonous chant of the pea- 
nut and pretzel seller. 


164 The Rambler Club’s 

By the time the band struck up the two 
had taken their seats. 

After three selections had been played the 
crowd began to grow restive. A scattered 
stamping of feet soon grew into a dull, steady 
roar, until the bravest efforts of the ‘‘Ten 
Thousand were drowned in the sea of sound. 

Suddenly the clanging note of a gong was 
heard. A “ grand triumphal and gorgeous 
spectacle of oriental and barbaric splendor 
was about to make its entry. Gilded Roman 
chariots drawn by “ fiery ” steeds three abreast, 
followed by Colossus, Titan and Nero, each 
pulling a golden car and led by gentlemen 
whose skin was nicely stained came first. 
Next were men in armor carrying huge shields 
and spears, and over all lights flashed with 
bewildering effect. 

The great Ollie Spudger himself, astride a 
coal black horse, and escorted by a cavalcade 
of Arabs and Japanese — at least, they bore a 
resemblance to Arabs and Japanese — bowed 
with condescending grace to the multitude. 

“ Great I laughed Victor, gleefully. 

Act followed act. In the small sawdust 
circle the celebrated Randolpho troupe of 


Motor Car 


165 

acrobats, as well as jugglers and clowns did 
their best to amuse ; and frequent manifesta- 
tions of approval came to encourage their ef- 
forts. 

“Say, just listen to that!’' cried Victor, 
suddenly holding up his hand. 

A dull moaning roar was sounding outside, 
and during the lulls they could hear a patter 
of rain beating against the canvas. A chilly 
wind took advantage of every opening, while 
the dingy canvas sides swayed back and forth 
in the gusts. 

“ The storm has broken at last,” said Dave. 

“ Gee 1 ” grunted Victor. He raised his coat 
collar. “ I guess we’re in for a good soaking, 
Brandon.” 

“ By the time the show lets out it may have 
lessened a bit,” returned Dave, encouragingly, 
“ Ah ha ; there is our friend, at last.” 

“ Hello — Bill Potts I ” quoth Victor. 

“ Hush, lad, hush,” laughed Dave. “ Or- 
mond de Sylveste, you mean.” 

Standing gracefully upon the back of a 
white horse, the chief equestrian of Spudger’s 
rode impressively into the ring. He bore no 
more resemblance to the melancholy-looking 


i66 


The Rambler Club’s 


Bill Potts of the earlier hours than did the 
bright, glistening spangles and other embel- 
lishments of his costume to his old, discarded 
clothes. Bill Potts — temporarily, at least — 
existed no more ; Ormond de Sylveste now 
reigned in his stead. 

Crack I Crack I The sound of the ring- 
master’s whip, rising sharply above the roar 
of the storm, sent the white horse into a swift 
gallop around the ring. Faster — still faster, 
but never too fast for the intrepid Ormond, 
pounded the flying hoofs. Gracefully he 
poised on one foot ; with easy skill he crashed 
through paper-covered hoops held up by a 
powdered and painted clown, then turned 
wonderful somersaults, never missing his 
footing on the back of the flying steed. 

Every known variety of sound which small 
boys can produce greeted Ormond de Sylveste 
as he dismounted, and, with the grace of a 
dancing master, bowed his thanks. 

Other performers appeared and went 
through their turns. Mr. Ollie Spudger 
made a speech, and when the show Anally 
ended apparently every one was satisfied with 
the grand display made by the Peerless. 


Motor Car 


167 

The spectators had scarcely risen to their 
feet when the dismantling of the seats began. 
The blows of hammers, the sound of heavy 
planks being taken up and piled one upon 
another, the sharp commands combined with 
the storm to produce a din and confusion 
which made only the youthful care to lin- 
ger. 

“ Guess they^re going to get ahead of the 
wind and pull the old canvas down over our 
ears,’' said Victor. Great Scott I Say ” 

What’s the matter? ” asked Dave. 

Don’t you see? Why, the menagerie tent 
is gone.” 

'' So it is.” 

The brightly-lighted tent which had con- 
tained the animals was no longer visible 
through the exit, its place being taken by a 
square of darkened sky. 

The two hurried forward and found, to 
their great satisfaction, that the rain had al- 
most ceased. 

Doesn’t it look odd ? ” said Victor, glancing 
around, and kicking up the sawdust with his 
foot. 

‘‘They made a mighty quick get-away,” 


i68 The Rambler Club’s 


commented Dave. “ A busy scene out there^ 
Vic.’^ 

By the brilliant glare of a calcium light 
they could see that teams of horses had been 
hitched to the great wagons. Several were 
already started on their difficult journey over 
the muddy field. 

Who’s this coming ? ” exclaimed Victor, 
at length. 

A figure, sometimes silhouetted sharply 
against the lights, then almost lost in shadow, 
was approaching on a run. 

‘‘Hello, Jumbo — I mean Dave,” yelled a 
lusty voice. “ Where are ye? Hello I ” 

“ Right over here, Joe,” called the historian. 

“Bully! Whiffin says you an’ Buster are 
to go along o’ me, an’ the team’s a’ready.” 


CHAPTER XIV 


THE WHALEBACK 

Captain Ralph Bunderley was, frankly, 
glad to see the visitors again. 

Come right on board, lads,’^ he called 
from his position on the deck. Where is 
Victor ? Gone off on a jaunt with that stout 
boy, eh? Oh, well, iPs all right. He has 
lots of time to enjoy himself before we leave.” 

Uncle Ralph had a great deal to talk about. 
His exciting sea tales found attentive listeners, 
and the captain seemed equally interested in 
hearing about some of the adventures of the 
Rambler Club. 

Sorry I canT tell you a thriller with a 
trip on a motor yacht as the subject,” laughed 
Bob. 

For an instant Uncle Ralph made no reply. 
Then he said, slowly : 

“ Come down in the cabin, boys. I have a 
few things you may enjoy looking over.” 

On reaching the saloon the captain walked 
169 


The Rambler Club’s 


170 

to a bookcase, opened it and brought out a 
large album. 

“ My own snap-shots,” he explained, with a 
touch of pride. 

“Some dandy views here,” said Bob, turn- 
ing the leaves. “ What I Are you going to 
leave us already, captain ? ” 

“ Just a few minutes, Bob. When you get 
through youll find another volume on the 
shelf.” 

Bob and Charlie soon became so deeply 
absorbed in their pleasant task of following 
the captain on some of his foreign voyages by 
the aid of pictures that various sounds of 
activity in the engine room, besides numerous 
noises on deck, failed to make more than a 
vague impression on their minds. 

The sudden starting of a gasoline motor, 
together with an unmistakable gliding move- 
ment on the part of the “ Fearless,” however, 
caused both to look up with exclamations of 
surprise. 

“ Great Scott I ” cried Bob. 

“ Oh, sugar ! ” exclaimed Charlie, nervously. 
“ What on earth does this mean, I wonder ? ” 

“ That weVe leaving it yards behind us, I 


Motor Car 


« 7 ‘ 

suppose,” chuckled Bob. “ Hello, captain ; 
giving us a surprise, eh ? 

Uncle Ralph was coming down the com- 
panionway. 

I thought you boys might like to see a 
motor yacht in action,'^ he laughed. Bob, 
in your future accounts of adventures, you 
may add a description of a short trip on Lake 
Michigan. 

On Lake Michigan ? gasped Charlie. 

His face flushed slightly. Naturally he did 
not wish to be thought lacking in courage, 
but the prospect certainly failed to arouse his 
enthusiasm. 

That’ll be perfectly great ! ” cried Bob. 
‘‘ Thanks, captain. We’ll enjoy it immensely.” 

“ How about the time, though ? ” asked 
Blake, rather weakly. 

Don’t worry about that,” answered Uncle 
Ralph, but come up on deck.” 

As they sat beneath the awning a constantly 
changing scene of factories, of various craft, 
and those picturesque jumbles of buildings 
which are so often seen along water-fronts, 
passed before their eyes. 

While the Fearless ” cut swiftly through 


172 


The Rambler Club’s 


the gray, choppy water, churning it into 
creamy foam, and the wind tore past in heavy 
gusts Blake’s peace of mind didn’t improve. 
Presently he rose to his feet. 

“ Guess I’ll stroll around a bit,” he re- 
marked. 

All right, Charlie,” said Bob. 

The senior at the Kings wood High soon 
observed Phil Malone industriously polishing 
a brass rail at the bow. Phil’s manner as 
he approached strongly suggested that of a - 
hare taken by surprise. 

Hello, Phil I ” greeted Charlie, pleasantly. 

The first mate,” without stopping work, 
grunted a monosyllable in reply. 

How’s the world treating you ? ” 

Phil’s views on the subject seemed to be 
rather indefinite. Blake understood, however, 
that he had no general complaint to make. 

Say, Phil, we’re bound for the lake. 
Rather dangerous out there at times, I sup- 
pose ? ” 

Charlie tried to speak in a very careless tone 
indeed. 

“ Yep — awful,” answered Phil, not very 
reassuringly, as he kept on polishing. 


Motor Car 


•73 

But, of course, in weather like this it’s all 
safe enough, eh ? ” 

A feller ain’t never safe on the water,” com- 
mented Phil, with amazing volubility, for him. 

I suppose you have plenty of life preserv- 
ers on board?” said Charlie, with a forced 
grin. 

Phil thought they had. 

“ Well, I hope we shan’t need ’em.” 

Can’t never tell,” mumbled the first 
mate,” giving an obstinate place on the brass 
an extra hard rub. 

Ever been in any tight fixes, Phil? ” 

Sure.” 

Where ? ” 

On the lake.” 

In what boat ? ” 

“ This un.” 

The conversation was not taking the cheery 
turn for which Charlie had hoped. 

“ I guess I’ll get back, Phil,” he remarked, 
turning away. 

“ Not the slightest objection,” came from 
Phil. 

In fifteen minutes the Fearless ” was rac- 
ing through the turbulent water of the lake. 


174 


The Rambler Club’s 


Battery after battery of surging waves swept 
against the hull, often sending showers of 
shining drops spattering over the deck. 

Gripped by the full force of wind and wave 
the motor yacht began to careen. Each in- 
stant Charlie Blake could see the city of 
Kenosha becoming more and more obscured 
behind the dull gray atmosphere. 

I call this perfectly stunning — one of the 
greatest of sports ! ’’ cried Bob. 

“ Certainly wish I was out of it/^ murmured 
Charlie, steadying himself by the rail. 

Wedl soon leave that schooner yonder far 
astern, Bob,” he heard Captain Bunderley say. 

Bob Somers raised a pair of marine glasses, 
which the skipper handed him, to his eyes. 
The vessel was apparently swept across the in- 
tervening space with lightning speed. He saw 
her spread of canvas bellying out in the wind, 
dingy masses of white slowly moving forth 
and back against the sky. The instrument 
shifted from point to point brought into view 
a network of rigging, spars, cabins, several 
sailors lounging near the forepeak and the 
line of water breaking crisply against the 
length of her hull. 



STEAMER COMING,” HE ANNOUNCED 



•I ^2 

Vf • * » ’^'4. 


• . -iQi:, ^-i ^ ^*v. ■ . 1-1 -r'-. r 

A:-.tK j..^. ■, >iltf -v i^ ' •-' 

fr-y-. ' ;'J|c '?*a;'";..-:F < .v v:>!? 

P- ■’>••-■.■,- • KHI'’ : ? S ;«R „■*•■. “ . ■ -LAiJ^ 





Motor Car 


>75 


“ She’s plowing along bravely,” said Bob, 
bracing himself to resist the wind. Hello I ” 
Swinging the glass toward the faint line of the 
horizon, he had suddenly picked out from the 
gloom a thin wisp of smoke. “ Steamer com- 
ing,” he announced. 

‘‘ Very probably a whaleback bound for 
Chicago,” explained Uncle Ralph. He smiled 
quizzically. “ A cat may look at the king, 
they say, so we’ll make an inspection of the 
monster at close range. Then we can race her 
back to Kenosha. Is she in range yet. Bob ? ” 
Yes, sir ; and looks like a whopper to me. 
I can see that the sides of the hull are curved 
over at the top, which means it’s a whaleback, 
all right.” 

The skipper shouted several directions to 
the helmsman. Martin Ricks thereupon 
changed the course of the Fearless,” heading 
her directly toward the steamer, now distinctly 
visible to the naked eye. 

The long stretch of water which separated 
them was being cut down with remarkable 
rapidity. Bob Somers, his eye to the glass, 
saw the three decks of the big white steamer 
crowded with passengers. Moving swiftly 


176 The Rambler Club’s 


through the turbulent water, apparently un- 
affected by the continual onslaughts of wind 
and waves, she presented a majestic appear- 
ance. 

The powerful glass brought every detail 
into view with extraordinary clearness. As 
Bob slowly swept the craft from stem to stern 
it seemed as though she was but a few yards 
distant. For an instant his gaze rested on the 
pilot house ; then he lowered the glass, giving 
him the range of the upper deck. 

A man leaning over the rail near the for- 
ward end, with a megaphone in his hand and 
surrounded by a group, immediately attracted 
Bob Somers’ attention. Their faces, sharply 
revealed in the circle of light, were all turned 
toward the motor yacht with an interest which 
seemed to him unusual. 

“ Looks as though the man is going to hail 
us,” he murmured. 

He removed the glass, and, instantly, the 
whaleback seemed to be shot far back on the 
waste of water. 

When the two craft were within a short dis- 
tance of each other. Captain Bunderley, con- 
siderably surprised to notice that the steamer 


Motor Car 


177 

had stopped her screw, gave orders to shut off 
power. 

“ The ‘ Fearless ’ ahoy I yelled a voice 
through the megaphone. 

'' That's Captain Phillips," declared Skip- 
per Bunderley. A good friend of mine, too. 
He wouldn't stop out here unless he had 
something important to say." He raised his 
voice in a sonorous yell. What's that, Phil- 
lips?" 

I want to ask if you can do me a great 
favor ? " came from the captain of the whale- 
back. 


CHAPTER XV 


AN UNEXPECTED VOYAGE 

A FEW minutes later, so skilfully had Mar- 
tin Ricks handled the Fearless that she was 
bobbing up and down on the leeward side of 
the monster steamer, which was still going 
slowly ahead under its own momentum. Its 
decks, rising high above them, and suggestive 
of some great building, seemed to have the 
singular effect of flattening the motor yacht 
almost down to the water’s edge. 

Hundreds of heads appeared over the rails, 
and the comments which ran through the 
crowd sounded above the wash and swish of 
beating water. 

“ Where are you bound, Captain Bunder- 
ley ? ” asked the master of the whaleback. 

*‘We are just out on a pleasure jaunt and 
intend to return to Kenosha at once ! ” yelled 
Uncle Ralph. 

Good, Bunderley I I’m going to introduce 
you to Judge Hampton, of Milwaukee.” 

178 


Motor Car 


‘79 

Captain Phillips indicated a gentleman at 
his side. 

‘'A well-known man, too. His term of 
office recently expired, but everybody still 
calls him Judge,^^ commented the skipper, 
the next instant replying in his bluff and 
hearty fashion. 

Judge Hampton, a rather elderly man, hold- 
ing his eye-glasses in one hand and a paper in 
the other, looked down upon them gravely. 

Captain Bunderley,” he began, in much 
the same tone of voice as he might have used in 
charging a jury, a wireless message has just 
reached me ” — he waved the paper — stating 
that my presence in Milwaukee is needed at 
once. Would it be possible for you to land 
me in Kenosha? The matter is of very great 
importance.’’ 

“Certainly I can. Judge,” responded Uncle 
Ralph, politely. 

“ I shall be most heartily obliged to you.” 

“Hey, Phil Malone I” shouted Captain 
Bunderley, “ stand by to catch a line.” 

“ Aye, aye, sir ! ” 

Uncle Ralph began to issue various orders. 
The bell in the engine room clanged loudly. 


i8o The Rambler Club’s 

The motor roared for an instant, then sank 
into a low, droning murmur. 

“ Mind yourself I ” yelled a voice, suddenly. 

A man on the lower deck of the whaleback 
was making ready to cast a rope. 

On it came — a sinuous, snake-like line, 
hurtling straight toward Captain Bundeiiey, 
who stood near the bow. The throw was accu- 
rate, and, in spite of the rocking, slippery deck, 
the skipper managed to catch it. In another 
instant Phil Malone was grasping a second 
rope hurled from a point near the motor 
yacht^s stern. 

Both lines were made fast, and the Fear- 
less,’’ struggling like some resisting monster 
against the grip of a giant foe, began closing 
up the gap of water which lay between it and 
the great white hull. 

Although shielded by the towering whale- 
back, the yacht wobbled and shook to such an 
extent that the last particle of interest on 
Charlie Blake’s part vanished. Supporting 
himself with difficulty, he stood watching 
Phil Malone and the captain hang out fenders. 
He heard various shouts from both vessels, 
the bell in the engine room of the ** Fearless ” 


Motor Car 


8i 


again clanging, and the creak of straining 
ropes. Then the last few feet of water was 
covered and the yacht sidled up to the larger 
boat with a dull, jarring shock. 

Presently a rope ladder dangled its length 
from deck to deck. Judge Hampton trusted 
himself to its swaying rungs, and, with ex- 
treme care, descended to the motor yacht. 

When I started out I didnT expect to have 
the honor of welcoming a former member of 
Wisconsin's judiciary on board the ‘ Fearless,^ ” 
said Captain Bunderley, assisting his passenger 
to a seat. 

The honor is mine,^^ smiled the Judge. 

The skipper and his first mate cast off 
the lines. A great churning of water quickly 
followed. A hearty farewell cheer came from 
the whaleback^s deck, as the two vessels swung 
clear, and the “ Fearless’^ seemed to leap away 
from the monster^s side. 

Captain Bunderley consulted a railroad time- 
table. 

I suppose you are anxious to reach Mil- 
waukee as soon as possible. Judge ? he asked. 

“ I am, indeed, affirmed the passenger. 

Well, I find that we should arrive in 


i 82 


The Rambler Club’s 


Kenosha too late for you to catch the next 
express. That means an hour or more lost.^^ 

''Too bad/^ said the Judge. 

Captain Bunderley swung around and faced 
Bob Somers. 

" If you two chaps shouldn't turn up at the 
hotel just when your chums expect, are they 
the sort to raise an awful howl or sit down 
and blubber?" he asked. 

" Not much," laughed Bob. " They’ll know 
it’s all right." 

" In that case. I’ll take you direct to Mil- 
waukee, Judge," announced the skipper, sud- 
denly, much to Charlie Blake’s astonishment 
and disgust. 

The jurist immediately protested that he 
couldn’t think of such a thing; but Uncle 
Ralph, with a smile, tersely ordered the yacht’s 
course to be changed. 

" The time means practically nothing to 
me. Judge, while it may be of great advantage 
to you," he said. 

The " Fearless " was pitching heavily. 
Charlie Blake looked at the succession of 
waves following each other ceaselessly across 
the broad expanse, at whitecaps always form- 


Motor Car 


J83 

ing, and at others always on the point of dis- 
solving themselves back into the gray, somber 
element. The heaving, tumbling flood and 
the dark, ragged storm-clouds scudding low, 
apparently dipping down at the blurred hori- 
zon line to meet the water, made an impress- 
ive spectacle. But certain distressing symp- 
toms prevented Blake from thoroughly 
enjoying it. 

He determined, however, not to let Bob 
Somers see how badly he was affected. He’ll 
think I’m a quitter,” he mused. 

His mind fully occupied, Blake only heard 
the conversation going on around him as a 
confused jumble of words. 

“ I do wonder how long it will be before we 
get there?” he murmured, impatiently. 

Time, to him at least, seemed to drag out 
interminably. But, at length, to his great 
joy. Uncle Ralph spoke up. 

‘‘ The lighthouse at the entrance to the 
harbor of Milwaukee, boys,” he said. 

Thank goodness I ” came from Charlie 
Blake. Then, sotto voce, he added, “ No 
more motor yacht motoring for me.” 

The Fearless,” apparently racing at almost 


The Rambler Club’s 


184 

the speed of a railroad train, had brought into 
view what appeared to be but a small gray 
vertical streak. The four watched it and a 
confused blur of lights and darks on the dis- 
tant shore slowly shaping themselves into 
definite form. 

Finally, towers, domes and chimneys 
sprang out from the shadowy masses, to 
form gray silhouettes against the sky. Before 
long the largest city in Wisconsin was clearly 
revealed to the gaze of the interested boys. 

The motor yacht soon swung abreast of the 
lighthouse, and, at length, glided smoothly 
into the picturesque Milwaukee River, where 
a variety of interesting sights began to pass 
in a steadily-moving procession. 

A bridge opened to let them by, then an- 
other. Near the third, which Captain Bun- 
derley explained was the East Water Street 
bridge, he pointed out a landing. 

There’s where I usually moor the ‘ Fear- 
less,’ ” he said. 

Why not follow your general custom 
now?” asked the Judge. 

For two reasons,” answered the captain : 
‘^your office is considerably further in town. 


Motor Car 185 

and the boys will have an opportunity to see 
more of the water-front/^ 

“ Objection sustained/^ laughed Judge 
Hampton, with my thanks added/’ 

At the Grand Avenue bridge a small 
steamer, coming from the opposite direction, 
held the motor yacht up for a few moments. 

Great warehouses, with long rows of staring 
windows and having only a narrow footway 
between them and the water, lifted their time- 
stained walls grimly against the clouds. The 
river, hemmed in on every hand, assumed a 
peculiar appearance of narrowness, which to 
the boys was heightened by contrast with the 
broad open lake so recently left behind. To 
their right a great modern structure sur- 
mounted by a tower was surrounded by 
buildings of all heights and sizes, the old and 
new standing side by side. Still further be- 
yond, another towered structure, the city hall, 
rose high in the air. 

But for the character of the buildings this 
view might suggest a bit of Holland,” re- 
marked Captain Bunderley. 

Other bridges were passed. Finally, be- 
yond a bend in the river, the skipper gave 


i86 


The Rambler Club’s 


orders to bring the yacht up alongside a 
wharf. This was done in an orderly fashion, 
and within a few moments she was made fast. 

WeTe here, and here we stay,’' said Cap- 
tain Bunderley. No East Water Street bridge 
for the ^ Fearless ’ to-day, boys.” 

The Judge shook hands warmly with the 
three and gave the captain his card. 

“ Don’t forget that I’m ready to return the 
favor at any time,” he said, cordially. This 
applies to all of you. Good-bye ! ” 

They watched the tall, dignified Judge until 
his figure had disappeared behind a building. 

Judges can be mighty nice, after all,” 
thought Charlie. Still, I’d a heap rather 
meet this particular one off the bench than 
on.” 

‘‘Now, boys,” spoke up Uncle Ralph, “a 
telegram must be sent to your stout friend 
Brandon announcing our safe arrival. Tell 
Victor to take a room at the hotel and expect 
me back to-morrow. Now, we’re thirty odd 
miles from your motor car. Going with me 

in the morning, or will ” 

“ Not for mine,” declared the “ grind,” de- 
cidedly. 


Motor Car 


187 

Either Dave or Tom can drive the car/^ 
said Bob. So we’ll let ’em come to us.” 

“ Very good.” 

The hotel and restaurant which Uncle Ralph 
generally patronized on his visits to the city 
was some distance from the wharf. As no 
telegraph office was passed on the way they 
concluded to defer sending the missive to Dave 
until after their meal. And this took con- 
siderable time. 

But the telegram was finally fiashed over 
the wires with the request that Dave should 
send an immediate response. Then nothing 
remained but to see the sights and amuse 
themselves. 

Captain Bunderley, after exacting a promise 
that they would meet him at the hotel about 
six o’clock, returned to the yacht. 

After they had wandered about the busy 
streets for some time Charlie exclaimed : 

Now, what’s the program ? My legs are 
beginning to put up a kick.” 

“ We are right close to that East Water 
Street bridge,” said Bob, as he consulted a 
pocket map. Looked like an interesting 
section to me. Suppose we take it in ? ” 


i88 


The Rambler Club’s 


“ One way is about as good as another, I 
s^pose,’^ replied Charlie, wearily. 

As the two came in sight of the bridge a tall, 
thin boy standing near a little building at one 
end attracted Blake’s attention. 

By Jove I ” he exclaimed, I never ex- 
pected to see another chap in this part of the 
country with a shape just like Tom’s I What’s 
the matter. Bob ? ’’ 

Bob Somers’ expression had undergone such 
a sudden and startling change that Charlie 
repeated his inquiry with a rising inflection. 

''Don’t you recognize him?” demanded 
Bob, sharply. 

" Recognize who ? ” 

" Why, Tom — our Tom Clifton, of course ! ” 


CHAPTER XVI 


TOM SCORES 

** Oh, sugar I You're dreaming. Pinch 
yourself," cried Charlie Blake. “ Tom is miles 
from here ; he's away back in Kenosha, you 
silly goose." 

“ He was, but he isn't ; he's right there in 
front of us." 

The grind " gazed first at the tall boy, 
whose back was partly turned, then toward 
his friend with such an air of comical bewil- 
derment that at any other time Bob Somers 
would have burst out laughing. 

It — it — certainly does look like Tom, but 
— but — why, hang it all, how can it be Tom ? " 
he gasped. 

Bob Somers smiled, and the next instant 
Blake heard him utter a lusty call which 
strangely resembled the hoot of an owl. 

It produced a most extraordinary effect on 
the tall lad. He swung around as sharply as 
189 


190 The Rambler Club’s 

though struck by some flying object. Then 
Charlie heard an answering hail of a similar 
character, and, at the same moment, saw the 
lad start toward them on a loping trot. 

Great Scott ! It is — it actually is Tom 
Clifton ! ” he cried. “ Well, well ! ” 

On came the tall boy, while Bob Somers 
and his companion, perhaps more astonished 
than they had ever been in all their lives, 
walked rapidly to meet him. 

Tom Clifton's face, as he approached, pre- 
sented a most curious study. He made a 
desperate attempt to appear cool and dignified, 
but, in spite of all his efforts, conflicting feel- 
ings of joy, triumph, and even indignation 
persisted in finding reflection on his counte- 
nance. 

Well, Bob, I knew I’d see you I ” was his 
exclamation, as he seized the other’s hand. 

That was a pretty slick scheme of Vic’s, 
but ” 

Slick scheme ? ” gasped Bob, while Charlie 
Blake’s mouth flew wide open. 

“ Sure thing I Oh, you needn’t try to 
put on any nice innocent looks.” Tom as- 
sumed an air of pitying condescension. I 


Motor Car 


191 

got wise to your dodge, all right ; yes siree, 
Bob Somers. Ha, ha I You chaps didn’t get 
up quite early enough to fool little Tom.” 

Why — why — what do you mean ? ” cried 
Bob. How in thunder did you get here, 
and why ? ” 

Well, that’s a good one I ” exclaimed Tom, 
indignation suddenly getting the upper hand of 
his other emotions. Say, do you chaps see 
anything green in me — ah, do you now ? ” 
A scornful look flashed in his eyes. “ Little 
Vic’s keeping out of sight, I suppose, eh? 
Thinks I might hurt him. But — but — honest. 
Bob, I didn’t think it of you I ” he blurted out, 
unable to control his feelings any longer. 
** Honest, I didn’t I ” 

“ What does all this mean, Tom? ” demanded 
Bob, sharply. 

Oh, now, cut it out, I tell you. I don’t 
mind a joke ” 

A joke ? ” broke in the highly mystified 
Blake. 

“ Yes ; a joke I You understand English, 
I s’pose?” 

'' No ; not this new brand of yours,” mur- 
mured Charlie. 


192 


The Rambler Club’s 


See here, Tom ” — Bob Somers laid a hand 
on the other’s shoulder — let’s get at this 
thing. How did you come here ? ” 

“ In the motor car, of course.” 

And where are Dave and Victor? ” 

Now look here. Bob,” cried Tom, hotly, 
you and Charlie know — I don’t. They 

helped you pull off this little trick and ” 

“ Great Caesar I What kind of a mix-up is 
this ? ” cried Bob, a glimmer of the true state 
of affairs entering his brain at last. So you 
came here alone ? ” 

A constable was in the car part way,” said 
Tom, loftily. I let ’er out a bit, Bob. And 
talk ’bout whizzing I Why, all the telegraph 
poles seemed to be melted into one — honest 
fact, they did. Now tell me what has become 
of Dave?” 

If Dave isn’t with you, he and Victor 
must be thirty-four miles from here,” said 
Bob, calmly. 

What? ” piped the tall lad, a sinking feel- 
ing suddenly gripping his heart. Bob Som- 
ers’ expression was quite enough to convince 
him of his sincerity. “Dave and Victor in 
Kenosha I ” he added, faintly. 


Motor Car 


»93 


His thoughts ran riot for a moment. Then, 
after all, Victor Collins wasn’t responsible. 
It really came as a stunning surprise to Tom. 

Well, Bob, the jinx has surely got us on 
this trip,” he exclaimed. ‘‘ Say, fellows, that 
was a foul tip of mine.” 

Highly disgusted, Tom Clifton told the 
whole story, not forgetting, even in his mental 
stress, to take credit for the fact that his cal- 
culations regarding the destination of the 
motor yacht had proven correct. 

The “ grind ” was not demonstrative, as a 
rule, but on this occasion he fairly roared 
with mirth, slapped his knees and grew 
so red in the face that Tom became quite 
alarmed. 

“ Gee I Look out, Charlie,” he cautioned. 

The system can stand only so much.” 

‘‘I know; and this was just a trifle over 
the limit,” gurgled Blake. '‘Ha, ha, Tom I 
You have Sherlock Holmes beaten a mile.” 

Tom was highly aggrieved. 

" I’ll leave it to Bob if anybody wouldn’t 
have been liable to think as I did,” he de- 
clared, stoutly. “ Now tell me how it hap- 
pened that you’re here.” 


194 The Rambler Club’s 

When Tom had been duly informed, Bob 
Somers remarked : 

Well, fellows, this certainly puts a new 
aspect on the case. What’s to be done ? Dave 
and Vic’ll think we’ve deserted ’em, sure. 
Another thing : Dave didn’t have a cent.” 

Oh, that’s all right,” said Charlie. Vic- 
tor always carries nearly a ton of the stuff in 
his pockets.” 

I’ll bet he wouldn’t lend Dave a nickel,” 
put in Tom, charitably. Looked to me as 
if he has it in for us.” 

Oh, get out,” scoffed Blake. 

Get off, you mean — eh. Bob ? ” 

We’ll most likely find a telegram waiting 
for us at the hotel,” said Bob, shaking his head 
negatively at Tom’s suggestion. 

Let’s go and see.” 

There was so much of interest in the streets 
that the boys didn’t feel inclined to hurry 
themselves. So it was late in afternoon when 
they finally set out in search of the hotel 
which Captain Bunderley patronized. 

By the time they reached it street lights 
and show windows were gleaming brightly 
through the darkness of a very dark night. 


Motor Car 


•95 

The boys found Uncle Ralph in the recep- 
tion room. 

Well, there’s no telegram from ^mur friend 
yet,” was his greeting as they stepped toward 
him. When his eyes lighted upon Tom Clif- 
ton’s tall figure he half arose in his chair. 

’Pon my word — what on earth does this 
mean ? ” he exclaimed. “ Where did you 
come from, boy ? ” 

Tom was visibly embarrassed, as the eyes 
of every one in the room were immediately 
leveled upon him. 

‘‘ I blew in on the motor car,” he began, 
‘‘ and ” 

What — on the motor car — alone ? ” 

‘‘ Yes, sir ; and ” 

Let’s have this story right from the begin- 
ning,” thundered Uncle Ralph, bringing his 
fist down on the table with a resounding 
bang, a proceeding which added considerably 
to Tom’s confusion. 

It wasn’t very easy for the tall boy to relate 
his story, especially with a number of people 
sitting around, all apparently eager to hear 
him speak. Uncle Ralph’s loud voice was 
the cause of this. He plunged in bravely, 


196 The Rambler Club’s 

however, being very careful indeed not to 
let out a hint regarding Victor’s supposed 
trick. 

Many and varied were Captain Bunderley’s 
observations as the tale was told. The captain 
couldn’t help expressing his frank opinion at 
all times, and in this case it wasn’t favorable 
to Tom. 

“ Why on earth did you do such a silly 
thing, boy ? ” he stormed. 

Silly ? ” cried Tom, aghast. 

Certainly ; absolutely so.” 

Tom, in helpless confusion, looked from 
Bob to Charlie. 

Silly ? ” he repeated, in fainter accents. 

His face flushed a deep crimson. Then, 
suddenly, all the fire in his nature flashed 
into a flame of burning indignation. 

It wasn’t a bit silly, sir,” he declared, 
fiercely. 

“Now just see here, young chap” — the 
captain’s big finger waved before Tom’s eyes; 
his voice boomed through the room with 
appalling distinctness — “it was silly! What 
will Victor and Dave think when they find 
yoTU and the motor car missing? ” 


Motor Car 


197 


I — I — don’t know, sir.” 

‘'Of course you don’t. But just imagine 
how worried those two boys may be.” 

“ Victor — perhaps ; not Dave, sir. Besides, 
it isn’t my fault.” 

“ Not your fault ? ” 

“ No, sir. But for your running off with 
Bob and Charlie it never would have hap- 
pened.” 

Tom came perilously near wilting under 
the captain’s stern gaze ; only by a desperate 
effort could he control his shaky nerves. 

The lines on the skipper’s face softened ; the 
harsh look faded from his eyes. 

“ That’s true, my boy,” he said, reflectively ; 
“quite true! Shake hands and forget what 
I said. But the mischief must be undone at 
once. Bob, I’m going to call up the hotel at 
Kenosha by long distance ’phone. My sister, 
if she knew the situation, I am sure would be 
intensely worried about the boy.” 

The three followed the captain’s burly form 
into the office. 

Tom’s expression had undergone a most 
remarkable change ; his face now wore a look 
of conscious triumph. 


198 The Rambler Club’s 

I squelched him some — eh, Bob ? ” he 
whispered in scarcely audible tones. He 
couldn’t make me the goat, oh, no I ” 

Be with you in a moment,” bawled out 
the captain, entering a telephone booth. 

Little things like a closed door and a pile 
of boards couldn’t keep Uncle Ralph’s voice 
within bounds. Presently they heard him 
say : What ! Couldn’t give ’em the telegram 
because they’ve gone ? How’s that ? — When ? 
’Pon my word ! And left no message, either ? 
Don’t expect ’em back ? Why not ? ” 

The answer was evidently far from satis- 
factory, for, with a sharp I’ll call you up 
later,” Captain Bunderley flipped the receiver 
back into place and stalked outside. 

Neither of ’em is at the hotel,” he ex- 
claimed. The clerk says they went ofi* at 
different times. Victor finally came back, but 
left again. Says the stout boy asked for credit, 
but he was obliged to refuse.” 

Gee whiz I ” cried Bob. 

Then he promptly explained Dave’s situa- 
tion, while Uncle Ralph’s brow clouded over. 

'' A very annoying state of affairs, indeed,” 
he pronounced. But let us go in to supper, 


Motor Car 


199 

boys. Perhaps by the time we’re through 
some word may have arrived.’^ 

Bat it hadn't. And when Uncle Ralph 
called up the Kenosha hotel a second and third 
time the same laconic answer was always re- 
ceived — “ No, sir ; they have not yet returned." 

Well, that settles it," cried Bob Somers, at 
length. ** We’ll motor right back to Kenosha 
and find ’em." 

What ! — On a night so black that a black 
cat would make a light spot in the landscape ? " 
exclaimed Captain Bunderley, protestingly. 

“ Oh, that kind of thing doesn’t worry us," 
broke in Tom, eagerly. “ Why, when we 

were in Wyoming " 

“ Oh, my I " groaned Charlie. 

Besides, it’s going to storm," went on the 
captain, seeing a look in Bob Somers’ eyes 
which indicated a settled determination. 

We have everything to protect us from the 
weather, sir. It’ll be a regular lark. Coming, 
fellows?" 

Bet your life I " cried Tom, enthusias- 
tically. 

Charlie Blake, however, held back. 

Oh, look here. Bob, what’s the use ? " he 


200 


The Rambler Club’s 


demurred. We might miss ^em, and have 
all our trouble for nothing. It isn't safe, 
either, traveling " 

“ Well, if you're afraid, that ends it," put in 
Tom, loftily. 

‘‘ Who said I was afraid ? " snapped the 
‘‘grind." 

“ Oh, nobody, of course," said Tom, looking 
very wise. 

“ Then don't chatter like a goose." 

“ Did I ever hear of such nerve I If " 

“ Cut it out, fellows," laughed Bob. “ Cap- 
tain, we'll send you a telegram just as soon as 
those chaps are rounded up." 

The former seaman smiled quizzically. To 
his mind, talking about the trip in a brightly 
lighted room and actually undertaking it 
were two such widely dilFerent propositions 
that he had little confidence in the boys stick- 
ing to their determination. “ They may pos- 
sibly go as far as the city limits," he thought, 
“ but that long stretch of lonely road and the 
blackness will send 'em back." 

“ Sure you want to try it? " he said, aloud. 

“ Yes, sir, the very worst way," laughed 
Bob. “ Now, Charlie " 





Motor Car 


201 


Blake, anticipating what he was about to 
say, and noticing a peculiar grin on Tom's 
face, held up his hand. 

I'm going," he said, in remarkably sour 
tones. 

That's fine." 

Captain Bunderley gave each a hearty grasp 
of the hand. 

“ Look out for yourselves, boys," he cau- 
tioned. Remember : if I had any authority 
over you I might not consent to your going." 

Oh, don't worry about us, sir," said Bob. 

We'll be all right." 

“ Down some embankment, I s'pose," mut- 
tered Charlie. 

Outside, Bob took a good look at the sky. 

“ 1 guess the skipper is right about the 
weather," he remarked, as they started off in 
the direction of the garage. 

Half an hour afterward the three arrived 
at the building. It was a very large garage 
containing many machines. The glare of 
electric lights revealed none more imposing 
than the Rambler Club's motor car. 

“ Not a speck o' mud left on her," said the 
man in charge. “ Going out to-night, sir ? 


202 


The Rambler Club’s 


Right away/’ answered Tom, with an air 
of importance. “ Pile in, fellows.” 

The fellows ‘‘ piled ” in. 

“ We may be back to-night, and we may 
not,” said the tall boy, handing over the 
amount of the bill and a generous tip. “ Let 
’er go. Bob. So-long I ” 

A deafening roar abruptly filled the whole 
room with thunderous echoes. Quick gasps 
and throbs followed, while the exhausts fiung 
to the air whirling clouds of spent gases. 
The two head and two side lamps threw a 
brilliant glare over the fioor and walls and cut 
a pathway through the open door to the street 
beyond. 

The trembling machine, responding to its 
master’s touch, glided forward. 

'‘This sure ain’t no kind o’ a night for joy 
ridin’,” remarked the man in charge, as he 
watched the big car swinging into the high- 
way. 


CHAPTER XVII 


ELEPHANTS 

The boys didn't turn back at the city limits 
as Captain Bunderley had fully expected they 
would. Instead, the motor car finally passed 
through South Milwaukee, and, under the 
cool and skilful guidance of Bob Somers, 
plunged steadily along the muddy road, its 
lamps throwing a strange, fantastic stream of 
light far in advance. Through its magic, ob- 
jects continually leaped out of the night, only 
to be greedily snatched back by the mantle of 
gloom. Lights suggestive of hobgoblins flitted 
from tree to tree, or swept across fields and 
underbrush, but in the immensity of space 
beyond the glare blackness held supreme con- 
trol. 

Heavy gusts of wind, moaning and whis- 
tling dismally in their hurried flight, almost 
drowned the soft, even purring of the mo- 
tor. Splashing rain-drops hurled themselves 
against the wind shield and top ; the storm, 
203 


204 


The Rambler Club’s 


long delayed, was beginning to let loose its 
pent-up wrath. 

Guess we^re going to have a peach of a 
time,^^ muttered Blake. If I hadn’t come, 
though, Tom would have kidded me about it 
for the next six months.” 

The disconsolate grind ” huddled back on 
the rear cushions listening to the wind and 
rain and the soft swish of flying mud, as 
the rubber-tired wheels occasionally plunged 
through pools and puddles. 

Let ’er out a bit. Bob,” encouraged Tom. 
“ Don’t be afraid.” He pulled the collar of 
his rain coat about his neck. “ No constable 
around now to stop our scorching. Gee ! 
Ought to have seen me burning up the road 
to-day. Bob ; good you weren’t along, Charlie. 
Hey — asleep back there? ” 

How in thunder could a fellow be asleep 
with a din like this knocking against his ear- 
drums?” growled Blake. ‘‘Where are we, 
Bob ? ” 

“ Somewhere between South Milwaukee and 
Racine — that’s all I know,” answered the 
driver, with a laugh. 

The wind blew harder; the rain, too, grad- 


Motor Car 


205 


ually increased in force until sweeping torrents 
beat hard against the motor car, splashing its 
occupants and forming tiny trickling pools in 
the bottom of the tonneau. 

Not a vehicle had passed them ; the country 
seemed absolutely deserted, and only dim 
points of light shining in the windows of 
distant farmhouses indicated that any life 
existed in the seeming wilderness. 

The intense loneliness, the continual noises 
of the storm and the haunting fear that hidden 
dangers might be lurking in their path pre- 
vented Blake from entering into the spirit of 
the occasion. 

By Jove, this is certainly about the limit,^* 
he groaned, inwardly. 

From his position the forms of Bob Somers 
and Tom Clifton, bending low to escape the 
cutting blasts, assumed a curiously unreal ap- 
pearance against the glare of acetylene light 
streaming ahead. Leaning forward, he sought 
vainly to pierce the blackness ; then, his face 
becoming the target for splattering rain-drops, 
he hastily drew back, to straighten up again a 
moment later as a shrill whistle sent a series 
of wild reverberations across the landscape. 


2o6 


The Rambler Club’s 


Over the air came faintly the rattle and 
roar of a fast express. The road was taking 
them near the tracks of the Chicago and 
Northwestern Railway. Charlie’s glance sud- 
denly rested upon something in the distance— 
a long row of tiny lights sweeping rapidly 
toward them. 

Now they disappeared ; now flashed into 
view once more ; the sound of grinding car 
wheels rose higher. Then, with almost in- 
credible rapidity, the tiny lights became gleam- 
ing windows seeming to radiate cheer as they 
sped onward through the night. In an instant 
more the train was lost to view, and only a 
faint screech of the locomotive’s whistle, fad- 
ing quickly into the roar of wind and splash 
of rain, told of its passing. 

‘‘ Wish I was on board,” sighed Charlie. 
“Tom Clifton’s grins’ll never drag me into 
any more silly adventures. This is ’most as 
bad as that awful motor yacht trip. I’ve been 
going some to-day, all right.” 

On the front seat, Tom was saying : 

“ Motoring in such blackness is dandy fun. 
The idea that you’re going to run into some- 
thing the next minute makes it kind of spicy, 


Motor Car 


207 


eh ? Gee, Bob, the rain^s coming down harder 
every minute. Wonder where old Dave and 
Victor are now ? 

'' Very likely taking it easy in the hotel,’^ 
grinned Bob. 

“ Christopher I What's that ? " 

A low rumbling sound had suddenly risen 
above the warring of wind and rain. 

‘‘ Thunder," answered the chauffeur, briefly. 

‘^Thunderation I I thought for a second it 
was a message from Dave passing right over 
our heads," laughed Tom. “ Some weather, 
this, Bob. Hello — a village beyond ! — See it?" 

Bob nodded. 

We’ll soon twirl that far behind us," he 
said. 

The faint points of light dotting the gloom 
gradually loomed up stronger; the white glare 
from their lamps at length flashed over a 
house by the roadside ; then on another, and 
within a few minutes the touring car was 
sweeping steadily through the village. 

Out from the darkness a small form seemed 
to literally hurl itself toward them, and, racing 
alongside, filled the air with vociferous barks 
and yelps. 


2o 8 The Rambler Club’s 

Leaning over, Bob saw a shaggy form of 
nondescript color, and caught a gleam from a 
pair of greenish eyes. 

Nice doggie ! he chirped, soothingly. 

He’s started off every other ^ nice doggie ’ 
in town,” chuckled Tom. “ Listen I ” 

The baying of numerous canines, some near 
at hand, others in the distance, was rising on 
the air. 

Some up-to-the-minute constable may nab 
us for disturbing sleeping dogs,” said Tom. 

“ That’s so,” grinned Bob. 

He manipulated the lever. The car leaped 
forward, leaving their four-footed foe far in 
the rear. For a few moments, his senses 
keenly alert for any signs of danger, he kept 
up the swinging gait, slowing up as the lights 
of a store and smithy close to it shot into view. 

As they passed the latter a cheerful glow 
was spreading out over the street from a 
partly-open door. The boys caught a momen- 
tary glimpse of figures and horses within, and 
heard vigorous blows on an anvil sending 
forth a series of musical notes. 

Then the long street, silent and deserted, 
slipped slowly by, and, presently, the motor 


Motor Car 


209 


car was threading its way in the zone where 
human activities seemed to have ceased. 
Another stretch of dreary blackness followed, 
with the trees, in the grip of the blasting 
air currents, soughing and snapping their 
branches mournfully. 

Pelting rain still assailed the travelers. 
The motor car often rolled through deep pools, 
scattering sheets of muddy spray aside. The 
boys could hear the oozy, sucking sound of 
slimy masses torn from their resting places 
and spattering against the guards. 

Say, Bob, wouldnT this be a great place 
for the machine to break down ? ’’ came in a 
sepulchral voice from the rear. 

You’d surely lose the polish on your 
shoes, Charlie,” laughed Tom. 

Wonder what Vic ’ud say to this? ” 

“ Oh, he’d let out an awful howl.” 

‘‘ And no one could blame him, either,” 
growled the disgusted Blake. 

On and on went the car, through another 
village and then another, and, finally, the 
city of Racine was seen asserting itself strongly 
against the gloom of nature. 

The boys found on entering the town that 


210 


The Rambler Club’s 

most of the stores were closed ; but the brightly 
lighted streets and the sight of electric cars 
and an occasional pedestrian was a welcome 
change after their siege of riding in the lonely 
country. 

Too bad we can't stay here for a while, 
fellows!" exclaimed Bob, “but it’s the long 
road and blackness again for us." 

“ Dave and Vic are probably sound asleep 
by this time," grumbled Charlie, “ never 
dreaming about the lovely time we’re having 
on their account." Then he added, softly, to 
himself : “ Guess I’ll be having nightmares 
about it, though, for weeks to come." 

“ Speed her up. Bob," said Tom, eagerly. 
“ A chap can see where he’s going out here." 

The street stretched straight ahead, with 
not a vehicle in sight. The glare of electric 
lights flashed on steadily falling rain ; the 
gutters ran with miniature floods, which 
gurgled and splashed along, carrying on their 
muddy surfaces a miscellaneous collection of 
rubbish. Here and there great pools reflected 
the buildings and telegraph poles with weird 
effect. 

Bob put on more speed ; the motor car 


Motor Car 


211 


leaped forward, and for several blocks they 
flew ahead at a breath-taking pace. An elec- 
tric car coming from the opposite direction 
presently whizzed past, a confused mass of 
blurred lights and shadows. 

This is simply great. Bob I cried Tom. 
“Enjoying yourself, Charlie?’^ he added, 
with a laugh. 

The “ grind ” was not ; so the only answer 
Tom’s query brought forth was a dissenting 
grunt. 

Occasionally Blake took a long, careful sur- 
vey of the situation. On looking out, a few 
moments later, he saw a residential section 
passing before his eyes. This was quickly 
followed by the open country and desola- 
tion. 

The storm, which had lulled during a short 
period, broke forth with renewed activity. 
At intervals coppery colored lightning 
streaked across the heavens, or forked its 
way to earth. In the brief instants of daz- 
zling glare a series of singularly clear impres- 
sions, of dark, twisting clouds, of distant farm- 
houses, of rail fences, of waving trees, and of 
formless patches of shadow were imprinted 


212 


The Rambler Club’s 


upon Charlie’s brain. It filled the boy with 
a curious sense of awe and dread which re- 
fused to be shaken off. 

“A bend in the road just ahead, Bob I” 
Tom at length sang out. 

“ I see it,” responded the chauffeur. 

The advancing rays of light showed the 
broad road disappearing around a mass of 
vegetation. 

“ Have to slow up now,” said Bob — danger 
of the machine skidding on slippery ground 
like this.” 

“ You bet.” 

As the touring car slackened speed Bob 
sent forth a long, warning blast of the horn. 

Tom laughed. 

Gee, Bob, what was the sense of doing 
that?” he cried. We haven’t passed many 
drays and trucks, or ” 

Blake, listening indifferently, would have 
continued to do so but for the loud, startled 
exclamation which brought Tom’s sentence 
to an abrupt close. 

He looked up quickly, then, with a gasp 
of astonishment, he fell forward, bringing up 
against the seat in front with a violent bump. 


Motor Car 


213 


The motor car had searcely swept around 
the bend when the acetylene glare picked out 
from the darkness the forms of three huge 
elephants advancing directly in their path. 
Almost stupefied with amazement, the boys, 
at the same instant, saw two men walking 
close beside them. Not far behind, the light 
shone upon a huge, red wagon. 

Before the warning cries which came from 
the men ceased Bob Somers had thrown out 
the clutch and applied the brakes, bringing 
the machine to a halt almost within its own 
length. 

A shrill trumpet call sounded. The ele- 
phant in advance, showing evidence of the 
greatest alarm, suddenly broke away from its 
keeper and attempted to turn back. 

Then followed a scene which made the 
nerves of the chauffeur and his companions 
tingle with excitement. A huge pachyderm, 
wheeling his body around, effectually blocked 
the other’s progress. Almost immediately the 
third elephant got into action, while every 
movement made by the men, in their efforts 
to pacify the animals, only added to their fear 
and confusion. 


214 


The Rambler Club’s 


Great Scott I breathed Charlie, grasping 
Bob by the arm. 

The three towering forms were swinging 
wildly toward them, the nearest threatening 
to plunge full tilt against the motor car. 


CHAPTER XVIII 


A ROUGH TRIP 

Victor, wouldn’t it be better for you to 
skip back to the hotel ? ” asked Dave, looking 
anxiously at the sky. 

The lawyer’s son thought of the dark, 
gloomy streets through which he would be 
obliged to pass ; then the idea of actually 
traveling with a circus appealed strongly to 
his imagination. 

** No, Brownie,” he answered, decidedly. 

“ Joe,” said Dave, turning toward the circus 
boy, “ I see the light of a drug store over yon- 
der; guess they have a ’phone. I’m going to 
call up the hotel. Can you wait, Joe? ” 

Sure, Dave. But if Whiffin ketches me 
busy at doin’ nothin’ it means a callin’ down 
—see?” 

All right, Joe ; we’ll hurry,” said Dave, 
encouragingly. 

An’ while you’re gone I’ll help git the 
elephants ready,” announced Joe, with sudden 
215 


2i6 


The Rambler Club’s 


decision. Them three old codgers goes 
ahead o' us." 

Dave, followed by Victor, loped across the 
wet, soggy lot, or, rather, tried to. But, al- 
though the journey was attended by much 
discomfort and some risk of taking a header, 
they finally arrived at the drug store in safety. 

Dave promptly called up the hotel and 
was soon speaking to the night clerk. The 
latter declined to open the telegram, but gave 
the stout boy full information about the 
'phone message which Captain Bunderley had 
sent from Milwaukee. 

^^Well?" queried Victor, eagerly, as the 
historian hung up the receiver. 

Dave briefly explained. 

There, you big Indian, I knew it I " ex- 
claimed the lawyer's son, triumphantly. “ A 
nice trick they played on us, eh ? Well, I'm 
liable to handle that Tom Clifton with aw- 
ful carelessness when we meet again. Now, 
Brownie " — his tone became imperious — you 
just call up Uncle Ralph on the long distance 
and tell him what's what." 

With a broad smile, the stout boy obeyed. 

To his disappointment, however, he was 


Motor Car 


217 

told that Captain Bunderley had retired for 
the night. 

“If it's important we’ll get him right up 
for you,” came a faint voice over the wire. 

Dave did some rapid thinking. “ Poor Joe 
is most likely fretting and fuming about the 
delay,” he mused. “ Besides, if I wait any 
longer there may be another mix-up.” 

He spoke in the transmitter again : 

“ Thank you ; I’m in too much of a hurry. 
Will you kindly take down a message and 
give it to the captain at once.” 

The distant clerk assured him that he 
would. Dave quickly went over the few facts 
which he thought it was necessary for the 
captain to know, ending with : “ He’ll hear 
from me in the morning.” “ Good-bye ” was 
trembling on his tongue when an afterthought 
prompted him to ask : “ How many boys are 
in the party ? ” 

“ Three,” came the answer. 

“ One very tall ? ” 

“ Yes, sir.” 

“ Any of them about ? ” 

“ No ; all went out together some time 
ago.” 


2i 8 The Rambler Club’s 


Thank you. Good-bye.'' 

What did he say? " demanded Victor. 

‘‘ Yes ; Tom is there, all right." Dave 
smiled. ‘‘ Come on," he added, seeing the 
familiar expression of anger instantly flash 
into the other’s face. He grasped the lad’s 
arm and hurried him outside. No time to 
lose, Vic," he urged. Look, the main tent 
is already down.” 

“ Just wait till I catch that tall chap ! ” ex- 
claimed Victor, savagely. 

Over on the lot, Joe Rodgers, standing at 
the head of a four-horse team, was impatiently 
awaiting their reappearance. 

Here, you fellers, climb aboard fast," he 
roared, the moment his eyes lighted upon 
their flgures. We ought to been off long 
ago." 

It wasn’t an easy task for Victor to reach 
the high seat, but, with considerable assist- 
ance, he Anally managed it. Then Joe, seem- 
ing to possess the nimbleness of a monkey, 
swung up beside him, while Dave, to Victor’s 
great surprise, also showing much agility, 
immediately followed. 

At any other time Victor Collins' sense of 


Motor Car 


219 


the proprieties might have prevented him 
from accepting a seat beside a boy whose 
estate was as lowly as that of “ Mister’^ Joe 
Rodgers, but just now so many things engaged 
his attention that he forgot to draw fine dis- 
tinctions. From his elevated perch he could 
look over a scene in which the weird and 
picturesque were combined with pleasing 
effect. 

By the aid of a brilliant calcium light and 
lanterns men were busily engaged in loading 
the remaining wagons. The workers hurried 
about, now out of the glare, then back again ; 
the air was full of noise — of shouts, of heavy 
planks being piled in place, of commands to 
horses, of sledge-hammer blows. Lanterns 
bobbed from place to place, suggestive of huge 
fire-flies. It was all very interesting to Vic- 
tor ; but Joe gave him no further time to 
enjoy it. 

Picking up the lines and raising his whip, 
he yelled lustily : 

Git ap ! 

Victor glanced curiously at the driver. He 
wondered how it happened that a boy appar- 
ently no older than himself was entrusted 


220 


The Rambler Club’s 


with the care of a great four-horse team, and 
being under such responsibility should show 
not the slightest trace of nervousness. 

Before the wagon was in motion a loud 
Hold on, there I made all turn abruptly 
around. 

A man having three horses in tow was 
headed straight for the wagon. 

“ Whiffin says I'm to tie this here bunch o’ 
nags on the back o' the next wagon out," ex- 
plained the man. “ Is that you, Rodgers ? " 

“ It sure ain't nobody else," growled Joe. 
Fasten 'em up quick, Tracy. The elephants 
has went a'ready." 

Tracy performed his task with commend- 
able celerity. 

All right, Joe," he presently called. Let 
'er go I " 

“ Git ap I " roared the driver. 

The dull thud of hoofs striking against 
the turf sounded ; the leaders swung around, 
plunged and reared. Down came an iron 
shoe, splintering a stone and sending off a 
shower of sparks. Joe’s whip swished vi- 
ciously, cracking like pistol shots. 

Whoa boy — haw 1 Hi, hi I Steady, Billi- 


Motor Car 221 

kin I Git over, there, you pesky brute I 
Whoa boy I 

It required an immense amount of vocal 
exercise, as well as tugging at the reins and 
many passes with the whip to get the huge 
bulk in motion. The wagon suddenly gave 
an alarming creak, then lurched forward. 
Joe yelled like a wild Indian. The horses 
stamped and strained with all their might, 
and in a few moments more the vehicle 
was bumping and jolting over the uneven 
ground. 

“ This here wagon^s chuck full o* eats for 
the bosses,’^ remarked Joe, when the road 
was reached. 

** Oh, I say. Brownie, it^s beginning to rain 
again, broke in Victor, complainingly. 

IsnT that the meanest luck? 

Here’s sumphin whatdl help keep it off 
them pretty duds o’ yourn, Buster,” grinned 
Joe. From the back of the seat he extracted 
an oilskin cover and a huge umbrella. ‘‘ Sneak 
in clos’t, fellers,” he commanded when the 
latter had been opened. ''Then none o’ youse 
won’t be drownded.” 

Joe was handling the reins with remarkable 


222 


The Rambler Club’s 


skill ; the big wagon rumbled along the street 
at good speed ; and, on looking back, Dave 
could see, barely perceptible in the gloom, 
several others following. 

Say, Joe,^^ he exclaimed, suddenly, are 
you any relation to Mr. Whiffin ? 

I sure ain’t,” answered Joe. 

“ How does it happen that you’re working 
in the circus ? ” 

“ ’Cause when I weren’t no more’n twelve 
years old I was left an orphan — understan’? 
So off I goes to me fadder’s sister ; an’ I stays 
with her an’ her husban’ a spell.” 

Didn’t you like it?” 

“ Like it ? I should say not I ” snorted 
Joe. I eats too much for ’em. One day 
me an’ him has some words ’bout it ; an’ he 
up an’ says : ^ Git right out o’ here, ye young 
cub.’ So I up an’ gits — see? I’m a purty 
good feller, I am; but don’t nobuddy rile 
me.” 

I understand,” said Dave, gravely. “ What 
did you do next? ” 

“ Oh, I gits a job in a village ; but the 
feller I worked for corks me one over the ear, 
so I up an’ gits ag’in — understan’ ? ” 


Motor Car 


223 

** Have a hard time finding another place ? 

Joe grinned. 

Oh, no,” he answered. ** Drop me down 
in the middle of anywheres an’ I’ll land on 
me feet. I’ve newspapered it a bit.” 

“ How did you happen to meet Mr. Whiffin ? ” 

Joe failed to respond immediately. The 
rain was beginning to beat hard against the 
umbrella, while the furious gusts of wind 
threatened every instant to tear it away. 

Victor drew the oilskin as far up as he 
could ; but the beating drops still found him, 
and began to trickle off his cap in tiny 
streams. 

‘‘ Ugh ! This is about the limit,” he 
groaned. 

“ If ye failed inter the lake it’d be a heap 
worse,” remarked Joe, cheerfully. “ It were 

this way, J u mho — I — I mean Dave Whoa 

there I Confound that off boss I Whoa — gee I 
Git over there I — Well, I was lookin’ for a meal 
ticket, when, of a suddent, I runs across — 
whoa, gee — Spudger’s Peerless. So I goes in 
an’ up an’ asks Whiffin for a job. * Git out o’ 
here,’ says Whiffin. ^ Sure — when I’m ready,’ 
says I. Then he kinder looks at me interested 


224 


The Rambler Club’s 

like, an’ says, ^ Who chased yer away from 
your happy home, kid ? ’ An’ I up an’ tells 
him. So he gives me a job as water carrier.” 

That’s interesting,” said Dave. Go 
ahead.” 

Whoa — gee ! Confound that off boss,” 
resumed Joe. Then, after while, he lets 
me drive wagons and keer for the bosses. 
There ain’t nuthin’ I don’t know about them 
animals, Dave.” 

Satisfied with circus life, Joe ? ” 

The boy pondered a moment. 

No, I ain’t,” he confided. I’d like to 
git an eddication, an’ be sumphin. But I 
ain’t never had no chanc’t. I wonder if I 
ever will have a chanc’t 1 ” he added, wistfully. 

What is your ambition ? ” pursued Dave. 

I dunno. Maybe I’d like to keep a pea- 
nut, pretzel and lemonade stand,” answered 
Joe. I know’d a feller what follered the 
show with one. He did good, too — saved a 
hundred and fifty dollars in three years. He’s 
gittin’ old now — most twenty-five, I reckon.” 

“ Poor decrepit old gentleman,” sighed Dave. 
“ Say, Joe,” he added, does your uncle know 
where you are ? ” 


Motor Car 


225 


Sure ! Whiffin up an’ writes ’im ; an’ 
what Uncle Jim writ back must have been 
hot stuff, ’cordin’ to Whiffin. But I kep’ me 
, job, all right.” 

“ Say, Brandon, why did you ever drag me 
into a mess like this ? ” broke in a peevish 
voice. It’s raining worse every minute.” 

Too bad, Vic.” 

Dave, with his cap pulled well over his eyes, 
peered out. 

The houses were becoming further and 
further apart. Here and there lights in 
windows shone dimly through the darkness. 
The line of trees on either side of the road 
rattled and snapped their myriads of branches, 
occasionally surrendering to the wildly eddying 
currents the quota of leaves demanded. Every- 
thing was dripping wet ; water fell from the 
umbrella in streams; water slid ceaselessly down 
the sides of the big red wagon ; water formed 
pools on top. From the nostrils and heaving 
bodies of the blanketed horses came clouds of 
steam. 

Victor, though well protected, felt miserable 
and disgusted and, as it was his nature to 
always put the blame on others, he began to 


226 The Rambler Club’s 


harbor an additional grievance against Dave 
Brandon. 

'' But for the big Indian I wouldn't be 
here/' he grumbled to himself. And just 
listen to the way he's chinning to this Rodgers 
kid I It certainly is enough to make a fellow 
tired for a whole week." 

“ No, I ain't never had no chanc't," Joe was 
repeating, dolefully. I ain't no good at 
leadin' or writin'." 

“ Would you go to school ? " asked Dave. 

Wouldn't I, though," said Joe ; eh, 
Buster?" 

He nudged Victor sharply in the ribs. 

Cut it out," growled Victor. 

I can't," grinned Joe. Ribs isginerally 
cut out by surgeons. Whoa ! Gee ! It's 
most time we ketched up to them elephants." 

With his eyes keenly scanning the road, 
he urged his team ahead by both voice and 
whip. Now on a slight down grade, the huge 
wagon rumbled along at considerable speed, 
occasionally jolting and jarring, as the wheels 
slipped into ruts or rolled through deep miry 
stretches. 

Dave finally detected two faint spots of 


Motor Car 227 

light struggling into view some distance 
ahead. 

It’s Scotty an’ Robins leadin’ the ele- 
phants,” explained Joe. '' Know’d I ketch 
up with ’em soon. Hi, hi I Git ap I . Say, 
this here is sure some storm, ain’t it, fellers ? 
Lightning now, by Jingo ! ” 

A glare had suddenly illumined the land- 
scape, and in the instantaneous flash the forms 
of three elephants at the crest of a rise showed 
as blurred masses of dark. 

By George I It’s enough to give a chap 
the creeps for fair,” thought Victor, with a 
shiver. 

Conversing was difficult. The three, though 
huddling under the umbrella as far as possible, 
were still the target for beating rain. At each 
flash of lightning the huge, unwieldy forms 
of Nero, Titan and Colossus loomed up more 
clearly, and, at length, when the leading 
horses began to strike their iron-shod hoofs in 
the muddy road close behind them, the lan- 
terns in the hands of Scott and Robins de- 
scribed a flashing circle in the air. 

Joe answered this salute with a lusty yell. 

“ We’re gittin’ there, fellers,” he added. 


228 The Rambler Club’s 

“ We’re most swimmin’ there/’ answered 
Robins, gruffly. 

And’ll soon need a raft,” put in Scotty. 

ril throw ye a life-line when ye needs 
one,” roared Joe. 

Then several miles fell grudgingly behind, 
with scarcely a word exchanged between men 
or boys. Dave, in spite of storm and discom- 
fort, his eyes tightly closed, was almost nod- 
ding, while Victor, utterly miserable, sat 
staring straight ahead. 

But all this was changed in the most start- 
ling and abrupt fashion. 

The loud blasts of a motor horn, echoing 
weirdly, brought Dave up with a start. 

What I ” he gasped. “ What I ” 

His eyes rested on a brilliant glare of light 
flooding the darkness. Then a big touring 
machine glided around a bend. Although 
the chauffeur handled his car skilfully, the 
unexpected sight threw the elephants into a 
state of panic. 

Them brutes is goin’ to git I ” yelled Joe, 
as the rumbling of the wagon wheels ceased. 

An instant later Dave and Victor saw the 
boy swinging from his seat to the ground. 


CHAPTER XIX 


DAVE DOES SOME RIDING 

Dave Brandon immediately furnished an- 
other example of his ability to move quickly 
when he chose to stir himself. Joe had 
scarcely landed before the stout boy was at his 
side. 

The crisp whirr of wheels and the thud of a 
horse^s hoofs was sounding close behind them. 
Dave stepped to one side, and, by the light 
from a row of lanterns on the red wagon, saw 
a buggy containing two men rapidly approach- 
ing. Just after it had splashed past him one 
of the men spoke up. 

The thin, rasping notes which poured forth 
at once proclaimed his identity ; it was Mr. 
Peter Whiffin. 

Dave, however, in the general confusion, 
amidst the noise of the storm and the shouts 
of the elephant keepers, could scarcely under- 
stand a word. The alarming actions of the 
big animals, too, occupied his undivided atten- 
229 


230 


The Rambler Club’s 


tion. Despite the frantic efforts of Scott and 
Robins, the pride of Spudger’s Peerless broke 
away, the largest almost sending his cumber- 
some body against the motor car. 

The next few instants witnessed a scene 
which made even the nerves of steady-going 
Dave Brandon tingle with excitement. It 
was impossible to tell which way the animals 
might turn, and any one standing in the road 
ran great danger of being knocked down and 
trampled under foot. 

But the movement of the big creatures was 
not left long in doubt. With another loud 
trumpeting. Colossus wheeled away from the 
motor car, then started at a loping gait around 
the bend, closely followed by Titan and Nero. 

I know’d it ! I know’d it I ” yelled Joe. 

An^ they^ll mash anythin’ flat what gits in 
their way.” 

After ’em, boys ; after ’em I” rose the voice 
of Mr. Ollie Spudger, in despairing accents. 

We don’t want no more suits for damages 
filed ag’in the show. If anybody as much 
as sees the beasts runnin’ loose they’ll sue, 
though only their feelin’s is hurt I ” 

Scott and Robins were already struggling 


Motor Car 


231 

through the mud and rain in a desperate 
effort to overtake their charges. 

After ^em for all you’re worth, boys I ” 
bawled Spudger. 

“ Twenty-five cents for the feller what stops 
’em 1 ” roared Mr. Whiffin. 

I’ll take a chanc’t on gittin’ them five 
nickels ! ” shouted Joe, snatching a lantern 
from its place on the wagon and dashing off. 

Dave Brandon was conscious of the fact that 
the automobi lists, after a sharp passage of 
words with Mr. Whiffin, had gone on, appar- 
ently thinking that the elephants would soon 
be under control. 

** That’s the way with them automobile 
fellers,” he heard Mr. Whiffin exclaim. 

Don’t keer what happens as long as they 
have their fling.” 

Then the buggy wheels began grinding 
through the mud again. Mr. Spudger and 
his manager were in hot pursuit of elephants 
and men. 

Dave stood, irresolute, then : 

Yes, I’ll do it,” he exclaimed, grimly. 
*‘As Joe says, if those animals should happen 
to bump into anything — whew I ” 


232 The Rambler Club’s 

‘‘What's all that queer mumbling down 
there, Brownie ? " cried Victor. “ Hey — where 
are you going? " 

Without making any reply, Dave unhooked 
a lantern from the side of the wagon and 
made a dash to the rear. 

The rays of light flashed over three horses, 
whose dilated nostrils and gleaming eyes gave 
indication of their frightened state. They 
strained and tugged frantically in an effort to 
pull away. 

“ Whoa, boy, whoa I " exclaimed Dave, 
soothingly, to the nearest, a coal black animal. 
“ Whoa, boy I " 

Warily, he stepped out of the way of rap- 
idly moving hoofs. 

“ Here's where some of my cowboy experi- 
ence will come in nicely," he murmured. 
“ Whoa there, old chap I " His hand gently 
stroked a quivering, glossy neck. “Whoa, I 
say I " 

Working near those swinging bodies, in a 
dim light, with rain and wind beating relent- 
lessly upon him, had an element of danger in 
it which lent spice to the situation. Dave's 
lantern, slung over his arm, sent curious 


Motor Car 


233 


patches of shadow dancing across the ground 
and reflected in sharp metallic dashes in water 
and ooze. 

In a few moments the lad succeeded in 
untying the rope. The black horse, freed, 
reared and plunged ; but Dave’s strong grip 
on the halter could not be shaken off. 

‘‘ It won’t be so easy riding you, old boy, 
with no bridle or saddle,” he muttered, but 
here goes I ” 

<< For gracious’ sake, what are you about, 
Brandon ? ” screeched Victor, in alarm, for the 
first time realizing his intention. “ Look out, 
you silly thing ; you’ll get tossed or be 
mashed into a jelly I ” 

To his unbounded amazement, he saw Dave 
Brandon spring lightly astride the prancing 
horse. 

Great Scott I ” he cried, breathlessly. 

I’ll be back soon, Vic,” shouted Dave. 

He pressed his knees against the animal’s 
side, leaned far over on its neck to escape the 
full force of the storm, then, with both hands 
gripping the halter, held on tight as the horse 
shot forward. 

Victor saw him being carried swiftly 


234 


The Rambler Club’s 


around the bend, the lantern over his arm 
swaying violently, and heard the sound of 
pounding hoofs growing faint in the dis- 
tance. 

It wrung from his lips a cry of admiration. 

By George, but that chap has wonderful 
nerve 1 ” 

Meanwhile, all of Dave Brandon^s skill in 
horsemanship was called into play. The spir- 
ited black horse, frantic with fear, galloped 
furiously along the slippery road, while Dave, 
jolted and shaken, sawed hard on the leather 
straps of the halter. 

Look out I ’’ he yelled. 

His ringing voice was added to the warning 
of clattering hoofs. 

Two dusky forms edged with sharp lights 
from the rays of their lanterns sprang hastily 
to the side of the road as the apparent run- 
away bore down upon them. Another, fur- 
ther in advance, loping along at remarkable 
speed — Joe Rodgers, in a desperate sprint to 
capture the promised quarter — was seen to 
stumble. 

Dave had a vision of a lantern performing 
some remarkable evolutions, and knew, more 


Motor Car 


235 


by impressions than actual sight, that Joe 
Rodgers had taken a header to safety in the 
mud. 

And all this time the red lantern on the 
back of Spudger’s vehicle was growing larger 
and stronger. A mass of formless dark, with 
surprising suddenness, resolved itself into the 
shape of a buggy and trotting horse. 

As Dave sped past he heard loud exclama- 
tions and yells in Peter Whiffin’s familiar 
voice. Then he was plunging on and on into 
the blackness, with nothing but an occasional 
gleam of electric flame to light the way. 

At last, after a determined fight, he regained 
control of the maddened animal. His face 
was stinging from the effects of beating rain 
and wind and his eyes were aching. But the 
wild ride had filled him with a strange sense of 
exhilaration. 

As a vivid streak of bluish lightning forked 
its way earthward, the rider gave a gasp of 
astonishment and alarm. The instantaneous 
glare had revealed with startling clearness the 
ponderous forms of three elephants but a few 
yards distant. Even before the jarring rever- 
berations of thunder began to sound the dull 


236 The Rambler Club’s 

thud of heavy feet splashing steadily through 
mud and water reached Dave Brandon^s ears. 

It was a moment for quick action and 
steady nerves. 

By the time his fierce yells and strenuous 
exertions had swerved the horse to one side 
the light of the lantern was falling on a huge 
bulk which towered high above him. He saw 
the elephant’s great head swing around, its 
eyes gleaming with fear. 

Great Scott ! ” murmured Dave. 

His nerves tingled at the thought of being 
thrown. 

He steered clear of a second shadowy form 
and soon a third detached itself faintly from 
the surroundings. 

The already badly frightened Colossus 
became a great deal more so as horse and rider 
shot alongside. A shrill trumpet call rang 
out. The huge elephant increased his pace, 
blocking every effort of the horseman to 
gallop past. And so, neck and neck, the 
animals raced along the lonely, water-soaked 
country road. 

Every flash of lightning brought into view 
fences on either hand. Dave knew there was 


Motor Car 


237 


no safety on either side or behind. Only his 
horse’s speed could carry him out of the 
dangerous situation in which he had placed 
himself. The touch of a great rough body 
brushing against his shoulder sent a thrill to 
his heart. 

This is just a little more than I bargained 
for,” he thought, grimly. 

Get up, Blacky, get up I ” he cried out, 
desperately. His hand descended hard on the 
animal’s flank. “ Go it, old boy I Go it, for 
your life ! ” 

Dave strained his eyes to pierce the dark- 
ness, fearful that the obscurity concealed some 
object into which they would be plunged with 
headlong force. 

It was one of the most thrilling moments in 
Dave Brandon’s life. Never before had he 
taken so many chances ; and never before had 
he been so determined to win. 

The boy could hear the labored breathing 
of his horse and saw patches of foam flung to 
the wind. The rapid pace over the rough 
road was fast telling on the animal’s strength. 
Thus, through the night and storm, the 
wild flight continued, with neither gaining 


238 The Rambler Club’s 

any advantage until the black horse, by a 
supreme effort, nosed ahead of its monster 
rival. 

“ Good for you. Blacky ! shouted Dave, 
exultingly. 

His lantern whirled in front of Colossus^ 
head, then again, and again, while he yelled 
with all his remaining force. 

Each time he was in danger of being hurled 
from his seat; each time the exertion made 
his heart thump harder. But the actions of 
the big elephant caused him to keep up the 
fight with every ounce of strength in his body. 

The panic-stricken beast seemed to have no 
desire to face that curious flashing light which 
occasionally grazed his upraised trunk. The 
pride of Spudger^s, seeing no escape from 
the terrifying object in front, voiced his fear 
in another loud call, swung abruptly across the 
road and continued along on the other side. 

Dave promptly met this move by a shift of 
the lantern. 

Almost immediately. Colossus slowed up, 
while the stout boy, feeling that the victory 
had been won, reined in his steaming horse, 
so as to keep directly in front of the elephant. 


Motor Car 


239 


Within a few minutes the struggle was over. 
The pachyderm, unable to elude the horseman, 
wavered, then came to a sudden stop. 

Dave Brandon was too winded to shout his 
exultation. He wheeled his horse around and 
halted in the middle of the road. Water 
poured from his hat and coat in streams ; his 
clothes were patched with mud, but, as he 
wearily straightened up, the glow of the lan- 
tern showed the familiar broad smile on his 
face. 

^'By Jingo,” he muttered, traveling with 
a circus surely has its thrills I ” 

Some five minutes later, when Messrs. 
Spudger and Whiffin hurriedly drove up, in a 
state of great excitement, they found three 
elephants huddled close together by the way- 
side, while a lone horseman, almost as motion- 
less as a statue, was standing on guard. 

And it didn’t take Mr. Whiffin’s sharp eyes 
very long to discover the identity of this 
vigilant sentinel. 

Didn’t I tell yer it was the fat feller who 
passed us, Mr. Spudger? ” he demanded, an’ 
by gum, he done the trick I ” 

And I should say, at twenty-five cents, it 


240 


The Rambler Club’s 


was about the cheapest bit of work I ever heard 
of. And if he's saved me from looking into 
any lawyer’s face I’ll add another twenty-five 
cents myself.” 

Mr. Spudger laughed gruffly at his own 
humorous observation. 

“ We’d best be keerful not to make too 
much noise,” warned Mr. Whiffin. I ain’t 
hankerin’ to look after them elephants.” 

That’s right,” assented Mr. Spudger. Let’s 
do all our conversation in whispers. If they 
ever git started on the back track this buggy 
would be only fit for kindlin’ fires, and I don’t 
like surgeons no more’n lawyers.” 

After this remark only the noise of the 
storm was heard until Joe Rodgers, a sadly 
bedraggled object, arrived on the scene of 
inaction. 

“ Stand as still as if you was a-loafin’ on 
the show, Joe,” commanded Whiffin, disagree- 
ably. If it hadn’t been for that there 
quarter you wanted to git you’d be asleep on 
the wagon now.” 

Scott, the elephant trainer, with his as- 
sistant, Robins, next appeared, and the men 
quickly secured their charges. 


Motor Car 


241 


A few specks of light on the road and the 
low rumble of wagon wheels soon indicated 
that the circus train was approaching. 

You're the greatest feller in the world, 
Dave I" exclaimed Joe, admiringly. I'll 
bet Bill Potts never would have done it." 

“ His forte is artistic riding," laughed Dave. 
“ Out on the plains with the cowboys taught 
me the plain variety." 

The leaders of the four-horse team swung 
up and the driver, who had taken Joe's place, 
clambered to the ground. 

Oh, hasn’t this been another glorious 
day ! " piped a small figure on the seat. Are 
you safe, Brownie? Goodness, but this has 
given me an awful fit of the nerves." 

“ I'm all right, Vic," answered Dave. He 
led the black horse to its former place behind 
the wagon. ‘'What's that? Did you speak, 
Mr. Whiffin?" 

A voice had come from the buggy. 

“ Step this way," said the manager. 

When his summons were obeyed he leaned 
out from beneath the shelter, extending a 
lean hand toward Dave's indistinct form. 

“ Here's that quarter, boy I " 


242 


The Rambler Club’s 


And you needn't give a receipt for it just 
now," guffawed Mr. Spudger. 

Thank you I " laughed Dave. 

Joe, already in his place, his hands grasp- 
ing the lines, waited until Dave Brandon vwas 
seated beside him, then his long whip cracked 
sharply, the horses plunged and struggled, 
the wheels reluctantly began to move, and the 
interrupted journey was resumed. 


CHAPTER XX 


VIC TUKNS UP 

The motor car boys arrived late at night, 
or, rather, early in the morning at Kenosha, 
left their mud-begrimed machine at the garage, 
and hastened to the hotel. There, to their 
great satisfaction, they learned about Dave's 
telephone message, then, with minds relieved 
from all further anxiety, congregated in Bob 
Somers’ room. 

‘‘ Well, we have made a night of it,” began 
Charlie. 

‘‘ And a morning, too,” piped Tom. 

The last of yesterday and the first of to- 
day have been nicely rolled together,” laughed 
Bob. 

“ Say ” — Tom managed to stifle a tremen- 
dous yawn — I certainly like the nerve of that 
fellow in the buggy.” 

^‘That’s just what I didn’t like about him,” 
said Charlie. It’s sure that he never took any 
correspondence school lessons in politeness.” 

243 


244 


The Rambler Club’s 


“And the idea of his taking down our 
license number 1 Honest, Bob, I came mighty 
near calling him down for that.’^ 

He made a noise like a steam calliope, 
but he couldn’t take us down,” grinned Bob. 

“ I certainly hope we don’t meet him again,” 
yawned Charlie. 

Oh, I wouldn’t know him from a baseball 
bat,” said Tom. By this time, fellows, I 
reckon Dave and Victor have made a safe 
steal for home — meaning they’ve reached 
Milwaukee.” 

And if so Captain Bunderley won’t be 
put out,” chirped Blake. 

“ I wonder if that is where Dave and Vic 
really have gone,” mused Bob. 

‘‘ Why, of course ! ” answered Tom, making 
an heroic attempt to control his blinking eyes. 

Let us have some deductions, quick, Tom,” 
urged Charlie, with a wink. 

Look out, or I’ll make you run like a ball 
player off for first I ” said Tom, scowling 
slightly. 

But no one could throw me out,” retorted 
the “ grind.” 

Guess I’ll turn in, fellows,” remarked Bob. 


Motor Car 


245 

“ Remember we have to hit the trail again 
to-morrow morning/’ 

I can never forget the agonizing look of 
the chap who had to clean our car,” quoth 
Charlie. Wasn’t it the biggest cake of mud 
you’ve ever seen? Good-night, Bob. Tom 
will yawn his head off in a minute.” 

“ Get out ! ” scoffed Tom. “ I’m not a bit 
more tired than anybody else.” 

“ Oh, yes, I s’pose you’d like to do it all 
over again,” laughed Charlie. Coming ? ” 

And Tom went. 

It was very late when the boys got up ; in 
fact, so late that a glance at the clock seemed 
to give each a pang of conscience. 

Simply awful,” murmured Tom. Can’t 
understand it. Why, I didn’t feel a bit tired 
last night.” 

Immediately after refreshing themselves 
with a good meal the boys started for the 
garage. 

Benjamin Rochester, more than ever con- 
vinced that there was something very mysteri- 
ous in the actions of the crowd, received them 
with the gravity due to such somber thoughts. 
Yes, sir, de car am done been cleaned,” 


246 The Rambler Club’s 

he remarked to Bob Somers. “ I guess dat 
machine tried to burrow its way to de center 
ob de earth.” 

“ Well, it was as dark as a tunnel last night,” 
explained Bob, and we hit some of the soft 
spots.” 

Guess yo’ must hab scooped ’em all up.” 

Two minutes later the car was whirling out 
of the garage. 

Dey is certainly de queerest bunch I done 
ebber heard ob,” muttered Benjamin. ‘‘I 
s’pects ril read somethin’ ’bout ’em in de 
papers befo’ long.” 

Through the streets of Kenosha, by the 
shortest route, sped the big machine. Charlie 
Blake’s association with the Ramblers was 
beginning to have an effect upon his timid 
disposition. His mind was no longer filled 
with dread misgivings, and Bob, who thought 
that his chief trouble lay in a lack of confi- 
dence in himself, kept urging him to try his 
hand at running the car. 

And finally Blake, to Tom’s great astonish- 
ment, did try. 

“ Great Scott, you’re going some now I ” 
exclaimed the tall boy. “ Play ball with that 


Motor Car 


247 

kind of spirit and we’ll have a winning 
nine.” 

‘‘ Bully boy,” said Bob, resuming his place 
at the wheel. “ You’ve got the hang of the 
thing in great shape.” 

Blake felt a glow of satisfaction. He was 
beginning to realize just why he had so often 
failed. 

With Bob in control, the landscape seemed 
to fly by with astonishing rapidity, and evi- 
dences that they were approaching a big town 
soon greeted their eyes. 

‘‘ Say, look at that, fellows ! ” exclaimed 
Tom, suddenly. 

A gorgeously colored poster by the side of 
the road depicted some of the Stupendous 
attractions ” of 01 lie Spudger’s Great Combined 
Peerless Circus and Menagerie. 

That’s worth looking at,” said Bob, bring- 
ing the machine to a stop. 

They’re going to stay on the scene for three 
days,” remarked Tom. Say, Bob, that must 
be the very show we passed on the road last 
night. Let’s motor around and take a squint.” 

** Oh, goodness, I never cared less to see a 
circus,” put in Charlie. 


248 The Rambler Club’s 

Well, it won’t do any harm.” 

Or any good, either.” 

^^^hen that makes it even, eh. Bob? How 
do you vote ? ” 

“ We might as well run around that way, 
Tom.” 

I suppose Clifton won’t be happy unless 
he can give the elephants peanuts,” grunted 
Charlie. 

The scattered buildings had given place to 
long rows. Along a wide avenue lined on 
both sides with handsome residences the 
Rambler Club’s motor car carried the three 
toward the business section of Racine. Again 
the chauffeur was obliged to look out for cars, 
vehicles and pedestrians, but, as no time was 
lost save when absolutely necessary, the town 
was quickly crossed. 

At length they came in sight of several 
circus tents rising in the midst of a vast lot. 
They could see, too, a number of huge red 
wagons, a miscellaneous collection of venders’ 
stands and a considerable crowd seeming to 
move in all directions. 

Gee ! Looks like some show to me,” 
remarked Tom, highly interested. “ Mighty 


Motor Car 


249 

big pictures they have hanging up by the 
entrance.’’ 

“ That’s high art,” said Charlie. 

How do you know ? ” queried Tom. 

That’s easy ; they’re at least six feet off the 
ground.” 

'' Huh, you’re getting real smart,” snapped 
Tom. 

I’m stocking up with ginger for the foot- 
ball games,” laughed Charlie. 

Oh, I can see the barker barking,” said 
Tom, suddenly. ** Aren’t they the windy 
chaps? I’m just a little bit too cute to be 
taken in by them. Say, wouldn’t you think 
a man would have more self-respect than to 
stand out there sporting a red coat and dinky 
little cap like that ? ” 

Strikes me he’s a kind of fat fellow,” said 
Blake, with an earnest stare. He ought to 
be out doing some useful work instead of try- 
ing to separate dimes and nickels from a lot 
of easy marks. Just look at the way he moves 
his arms ! ” 

“ You might think he was a lawyer plead- 
ing a case in court,” laughed Bob. “ I guess 
he would about match Dave in size.” 


2^0 The Rambler Club’s 

“ Hello I said Charlie, his eyes resting on 
one of the large paintings. There's a picture 
of Adolphus, the boy giant. His figure seems 
to match our Tom's." 

Oh, cut out the Victor Collins remarks," 
growled Clifton. ‘‘ Stop here. Bob. It's jolly 
good fun to watch the people. Crickets, what 
a noise ! Why — why — what's the matter?" 

Bob Somers was staring toward the barker 
with a mystified expression which gradually 
deepened. He was about to speak, when : 

My gracious alive, if there isn’t that fel- 
low, Tom Clifton I " came to their ears. 

The three boys turned quickly at the sound 
of a familiar voice, and, to their utter aston- 
ishment, found themselves facing Victor Col- 
lins. 


CHAPTER XXI 


EXPLANATIONS 

Great as was the amazement of the boys 
to see Victor, his next words amazed them 
still more. 

“ Come down out of that, Clifton, and 1^11 
punch you good and plenty ! ’’ he howled. 

Before Tom Clifton could gather his wits 
together and reply, Victor was speaking again. 

“ That was about the meanest and silliest 
trick I ever heard ofP^ he exclaimed, bran- 
dishing a small white fist in the air. ** IVe 
got it in for you, too, Blakelets ; and ditto for 
you, Bob Somers.^^ 

The group in the motor car exchanged 
glances of bewilderment. Then the chauffeur 
spoke up. 

How did you get here, Victor? he asked. 

This question seemed to increase Victor’s 
fiery attitude. 

Oh, don’t try to jolly me,” he screeched. 

Put that innocent look off your face, Tom 
251 


I 


252 The Rambler Club’s 

Clifton. And if youVe not too scared step 
down and get the first instalment of what’s 
coming to you 1 ” 

Tom Clifton, fairly aghast, fiushed crimson. 
For him to be threatened in the presence of 
his chums by a boy of Victor’s size was more 
than his feelings could stand. 

Words and actions came to his relief. 
Springing to the ground he seized Victor by 
the arm. 

What’s the matter, you silly little duf- 
fer?” he exclaimed, fiercely. But, like a 
flash, the thought came to him that, after 
all, it might be only a joke. Oh, it’s all 
right, Victor,” he added, with forced calmness. 

You can’t string me.” 

Or rope me into believing any taffy. I’ll 
show you how much joke there’s in it I ” 

Something happened. 

Victor’s small fists began to move with 
truly remarkable speed. It was Tom Clifton’s 
ribs that stopped several snappy punches. 

‘‘Ouchl Quit it!” yelledTom, jumpingaside 
with undignified haste. “ Stop — stop, I say 1 ” 

But whichever way he turned Victor was 
always dancing before him. 


Motor Car 


253 


You would make me miss that motor 
yacht trip, eh? Thought maybe I looked 
soft, eh ? Well, here’s one for that ! ” 

Two pairs of restraining hands suddenly 
gripped Victor Collins’ shoulders. 

“ No more of this, Vic,” commanded Bob, 
sternly. “ We don’t want to start a rival 
show on this side of the street.” 

** You’re making more noise than that fat 
barker over there I ” added Charlie. 

Tom Clifton, painfully conscious that he had 
made no effort to defend himself, and feeling 
the various assortment of punches which Vic- 
tor had liberally bestowed upon him, sud- 
denly decided that his reputation would suffer 
unless some decisive action was taken. 

A good shaking, he thought, would be 
about the proper thing. 

I’ll tend to him myself, Bob. Leave the 
whole thing to me ! ” he cried. 

While Victor squirmed and struggled in 
Bob Somers’ strong grasp, Charlie, bubbling 
over with mirth, had secured a firm hold on 
Tom Clifton’s arm. 

I guess the circus has been too much for 
somebody’s nerves,” he chuckled. Better 


The Rambler Club’s 


254 

stop. There are about eighteen people look- 
ing over.^^ 

I don^t care I ” stormed Tom. 

“ I do/’ said Bob. Let’s begin at the be- 
ginning, and come to the end fast. Victor 
seems peeved about something. Speak up, 
Vic : what’s the trouble ? ” 

Realizing that the odds were too great to 
overcome, Victor simmered down. 

There’d be thirty-nine people looking at 
us if I had my way,” he said, sullenly. 

This thing isn’t ended yet. Tall Indians 
are easy for me.” 

Then explanations ought to be easy,” 
laughed Bob. 

Victor poured forth the story of his woes 
with a volubility that showed a strong grip 
on the English language, and, as he pro- 
ceeded, the faces of the three completely 
changed expression. Bob and Charlie fairly 
roared with mirth, while Tom, backing up 
against the motor car, seemed almost too as- 
tonished to speak. 

We had our trip on the yacht,” cried 
Blake, between his peals of laughter. 

'^And Tom did motor it to Milwaukee,” 


Motor Car 


^55 

supplemented Bob. “But ‘things are not 
always what they seem/ 

Briefly he explained the situation. His 
manner and tones were so convincing as to 
completely silence Victor Collins’ suspicions. 
The angry look slowly faded from his eyes. 
He stuck his hands into his overcoat pocket 
and whistled shrilly. 

For once in his life Victor had learned a 
lesson. 

The story of Tom’s brilliant deductions 
was, of course, too good to keep, so the 
“ grind,” in spite of the tall boy’s frantic 
winks, gave all the details with a charming 
disregard for his feelings. 

The sheepish expression which had rested 
on Victor’s face gave place to an enormous 
grin. He laughed quite as loudly as Bob and 
Charlie had done a few moments before. 

Well,” growled Tom, can you blame 
me? Weren’t you all twisted up yourself? 
I went down to the wharf and saw ” 

“ So did Brandon and I ; and all we saw 
was a mean-looking little fat man. He had 
the nerve to come up and begin talking. 
* No ; not even the glitter of a cent,’ I told the 


256 The Rambler Club’s 

beggar. Whew, wasn’t he hopping mad, 
though ! You ought to have seen how he beat 
it.” 

'' A little fat man I ” cried Tom, opening his 
eyes. Why — why, he must have been the 
very one that told me about the boys going off 
on the yacht.” 

He did ? ” gasped Victor. 

‘^Yes! Why, he wasn’t any beggar. It 
wouldn’t take a Sherlock Holmes to see that 
he had sized up the situation and was going 
to tell you all about it. If you had only 
given him half a chance, Victor Collins, 
this ” 

“ What ! Are you going to try and put the 
blame on me?” interrupted Victor, fiercely. 

It wouldn’t have changed things at all — not 
a bit of it. I knew the whole crowd had 
skipped.” 

Say, fellows I ” Bob Somers’ loud ex- 
clamation put an end to the wrangle. “ No 
wonder that chap over there has a shape like 
Dave’s ! It is Dave ; and I knew it 1 ” 

‘‘ Why, of course it is ! ” snapped Victor. 

“ Great Scott I ” cried Tom. What — that 

fellow with the red coat and dinky little 


Motor Car 


257 

cap our Dave? Somebody fan me with a 
feather. 

“ A ropers end would suit your case better. 
Yes ; Brandon has had to earn his own living 
for once.’^ 

“ Help I murmured Charlie. This has 
been almost too much for my weak intellect.’^ 

“ Now, Vic, do let us have an explanation I ” 
cried Bob. 

You might have told us before, instead of 
raising such a howl about me,” broke in Tom. 

Victor immediately launched forth into a 
vivid description of their experiences with the 
circus. He had a great deal to say, but the 
boys did not stand still while listening to it. 
Each was too anxious to see David Brandon in 
his new and astonishing r61e. They rapidly 
crossed the street, then made as straight a line 
as booths, stands and people would permit 
toward the entrance to the show. 

All the sights and sounds peculiar to cir- 
cuses were on every side. Their thoughts, 
however, were centered upon the boy with the 
red coat and tasseled cap who seemed to be 
talking as easily and naturally as though 
merely reciting in school. 


258 The Rambler Club’s 

In the midst of an impassioned argument 
Dave caught sight of his friends. He waved 
his arm, but that was all he could do in the 
way of greeting. 

The end of Victor’s story fell on inattentive 
ears. 

Tom felt his heart swell with pride — pride 
that Dave — their Dave — had again shown 
his versatility. Forgetting diffidence, he 
yelled : 

You didn’t know our automobile passed 
you on the road last night, eh, Dave ? ” 

And a moment after these words were 
spoken he observed a small, thin man, who 
had been staring toward them, start forward. 
He also noticed, as the man approached, that 
he was scowling angrily. 

** Say, boys,” he exclaimed, in a voice which 
the Ramblers had heard on the night before, 
so it was your car that passed us on the 
road, eh ? Well, I’ve got a word to say 1” 


CHAPTER XXII 


DAVE KESIGNS 

Mr. Peter Whiffin, straining his neck in 
an effort to look squarely into Tom Clifton’s 
eyes, also waved his finger threateningly in 
the air. 

Things has came to a pretty pass when a 
lot of irresponsible kids can go chasin’ all 
around creation in a motor car. Do you 
know what you done last night ? ” 

The familiar flush appeared once more on 
Tom Clifton’s face as many pairs of eyes were 
leveled in his direction. 

What do you mean ? ” he stammered. 

It’s a wonder it doesn’t mean a ten thou- 
sand dollar suit for damages I ” thundered 
Mr. Whiffin, savagely. An’ it’s only by 
good luck that you ain’t mixed up in the 
biggest kind of a rumpus. That car o’ yourn 
stampeded our elephants — that’s what it 
done I ” 

I’m very sorry to hear it,” spoke up Bob 
259 


26 o The Rambler Club’s 

Somers, quietly, “ but you can hardly blame 
US. We had just as much right to the road 
as you.^^ 

‘‘ No sass, now I ” cried WhifFm. 

Tom was trembling with indignation. 

Seems to me youTe handing some out 
yourself/^ he managed to say. 

‘‘ I’m good at it,” snapped Whiffin. “ Any- 
body what deserves sass gits their full share 
from me.” 

By George, if I’d only known it was the 
Ramblers in that car,” cried Victor, recover- 
ing from his surprise, maybe some mud balls 
wouldn’t have been flying ! ” 

“ I must say this has been a wonderful 
motor car trip,” remarked Charlie. 

“Just supposin’ them elephants had run 
inter somethin’ ? ” Mr. Whiffin’s querulous 
tones rose above all other sounds. “Just 
supposin’ a farmer’s wagon had been in the 
way ” 

“Or a picnic party,” broke in Tom, satir- 
ically. 

No doubt Mr. Whiffin would have made a 
very interesting retort but for the fact that 
his eyes happened to rest on the form of a 


Motor Car 


261 

stocky, freckle-faced boy. This lad, attracted 
by the sound of his voice, had come forward 
and was taking in the scene with much ap- 
parent interest. 

The audacity of such a proceeding seemed 
to appal Mr. Peter Whiffin. 

‘‘ Loafin' ag’in, eh ? " he snarled. Expect 
to be supported in idleness, I reckon I You 
ain't done scarcely nothin' since I hired that 
new barker." 

'‘Oh, I ain't, eh?" Joe Rodgers’ eyes 
flashed angrily. “ Oh, no ; I ain't done 
nothin' but work me arms an' legs most off I " 

“ Light out I " commanded the manager. 

" When I gits ready I will," answered Joe, 
defiantly. " Hey, fellers, I heard all that. 
So you're the ones what Jumbo, I — I mean 
Dave told me about? An', say, he's the 
bulliest feller in the whole world. Anybody 
w^hat could do what he done last night ought 
ter have a medal." 

" Permit me to introduce into your charmed 
circle the esteemed and particular crony of 
Mr. David Brandon — Joseph Rodgers, Esquire, 
water carrier by special appointment to Oily 
Spudger’s Great Show," snickered Victor. 


262 


The Rambler Club’s 


The boys greeted Joe politely. 

If the fat feller belongs to a bunch like 
this it^s most enough to make me fire him/^ 
growled the manager. Have you watered 
them elephants, Joe ? 

Sure I have.'’ 

“ And wiped off them cages ? " 

Yep." 

‘‘Well, you knowwhat yer next job is. Git!" 

“ Don't have to." 

Mr. Whiffin was both amazed and angry. 

“ It’s all the doin's o' that there new 
barker," he declared, emphatically. “ He's 
been fillin' yer head full o' cranky notions. 
Ye’re gittin' too big fer your place." 

“ 'Tain't so ! " Joe flung back, spitefully. 

“ I'll look inter this here affair, an' if that 
fat feller keeps meddlin' inter other people's 
business I'll hand him somethin' what he 
won’t never forgit." 

“ A fine bit of gratitude for stopping the 
runaway elephants ! ” cried Tom. 

“ Mr. Whiffin is going to give you all free 
passes," spoke up Victor, loudly. “ Step right 
over to the box office and get 'em ! ” 

The manager glared at the crowd. 


Motor Car 


263 

“ If that's what ye're after, pass straight 
along," he snarled. I wouldn't want you 
in the show at fifty cents per. Like as not 
you'd stampede the whole menagerie I " 

The furious blast of the ten thousand dollar 
band starting up made further conversation 
almost impossible. As though the music con- 
veyed some signal to the brain of Mr. Whiffin 
and his prot6g6, they immediately started off, 
and, by the simple process of mingling with 
the crowd, were soon lost to sight. 

‘‘ The automobile hasn't bumped anything," 
laughed Bob, but a whole lot of things have 
bumped us." 

The boys, seeing that there would be no 
chance to interview the barker for some time, 
concluded to take the car to the nearest garage. 

I always knew that Dave could do a lot of 
things," said Tom, as he climbed into the 
machine, “ but who ever thought he could 
stand up before a crowd and talk like that? " 
And didn't he look perfectly stunning in 
that red coat and pretty little cap ? " remarked 
Charlie Blake, with a sly glance at each of the 
others. Aren't we the brainy chaps on this 
trip, though ? " 


264 The Rambler Club’s 

“ A hulking big thing like that ought to be 
out working on a farm/' roared Bob. 

With a loud honk, honk, the motorcar was 
off, and twenty minutes later the four were 
back at the circus. 

They found the lot in the grip of a frenzy 
of sound. Daye was hammering on a gong, 
the ringing notes of which even overtopped 
the most strenuous efforts of the hard-working 
band ; and this medley of sound was punctu- 
ated at intervals by the cries of venders, or the 
shrill whoops of children. 

It's a dandy show, all right," said Victor. 

If Whiffin had gotten me to do the bark- 
ing instead of Dave " began Tom. Hey, 

what are you laughing about? " he demanded, 
suspiciously. 

'' Oh, nothing I " gurgled Victor. Excuse 
me, but the thought of you chinning to a 
crowd somehow gave me a fit of the laughs." 

“ Then get over it. I was going to say that 
there would have been a fine row if he’d tried 
any of his prattling on me." 

My, oh my, isn't that awful to think of?" 
snickered Victor. 

Tom tossed his head scornfully, and was 


Motor Car 265 

about to join in a rush for the ticket wagon 
when Bob stopped him. 

“ I want to get a chance to speak to Dave 
first/^ he said. “ Plenty of time yet, Tom.’^ 

“ The tent seems to be actually swallowing 
people,” objected Clifton. “ There won't be 
any places left.” 

Only wish they were turning hundreds 
away,” exclaimed Charlie. Then we wouldn’t 
be able to go in.” 

When the stampede to gain admission was 
over the band ceased playing with remarkable 
promptness, and Dave as promptly resumed 
speaking. 

It was clearly evident that those who failed 
to avail themselves of the opportunity of see- 
ing the great Spudger show on that particular 
afternoon would be making one of the most 
amazing mistakes of their lives. Dave almost 
said as much. 

“ Thank goodness we haven’t missed it,” 
said Bob, with a smile. ‘‘ Oh,” he turned 
abruptly at the sound of a voice — you here 
again, Joe I ” 

’Tain’t nobody else,” chuckled Joe. 

** Mr. Rodgers looks like a living danger 


266 


The Rambler Club’s 


signal,” said Charlie, his eyes scanning Joe’s 
flaming red vest. 

The circus boy seemed to construe this as a 
great compliment. He grinned complacently. 

You fellers is certainly all to the good/’ 
he said, graciously. “ An’, say, isn’t Dave a 
Jim dandy ? ” 

‘‘ Of course he is,” laughed Charlie. How 
do you like circus life, Joe ? ” 

“ Not as much as I did afore I met Dave,” 
answered Joe. “ He kinder started me 
a-thinkin’. I ain’t got no eddication, an’ he 
says if I don’t never begin I won’t have no 
chanc’t to get up in the band wagon. An’, 
say ” — the freckle-faced boy laughed — “ I 
wish’t I could play music.” 

“ Why ? ” inquired Tom. 

’Cause them fellers has an easy job.” 

“ How so ? ” 

Oh, I’m wise to ’em. Often, when the 
leader weren’t a-lookin’, I’ve seen ’em quit 
playin’ — honest, I have. An’ when he gits 
his eyes on ’em ag’in an’ waves that there club 
o’ hisn, they starts up like mad.” 

“ Deceitful rascals,” murmured Charlie, 
trying to stifle a suspicious gurgle. 


Motor Car 


267 

Within a short time the boys found their 
opportunity to speak to Dave. They shook 
hands as heartily and their tongues wagged as 
rapidly as though weeks had separated them. 
Making the best of the few minutes which 
were at their disposal, enough was said to 
render the situation clear all around. 

They learned that Dave expected to be with 
Spudger's until the next day, and that he had 
written a letter to Captain Bunderley. 

I told him Vic and I would leave for 
Milwaukee just as soon as my work was over,'^ 
explained the stout boy. 

Hooray I cried Tom. Then there is 
nothing for us to do but enjoy ourselves.^^ 

An’ I’ll show you the best seats in the 
house,” added Joe. Come on I ” 

Of course Tom was too dignified to show 
any visible effects of the pleasing sensations 
which seized him as he entered the abode of 
pomp and sawdust. He had never before seen 
so much of either. 

As the performance was about to begin, Joe 
immediately conducted them to the reserved 
seat section, where real chairs took the place 
of piles of lumber. 


268 


The Rambler Club’s 


“ We haven’t stampeded the menagerie and 
it’s cost us only twenty-five cents per,” laughed 
Bob. 

Dave, minus his red coat and cap, soon 
joined them ; and from their point of vantage 
they witnessed the Stupendous and Gorgeous 
Spectacle ” which Spudger always gave to his 
patrons. 

After the show, when the crowds had de- 
parted, Dave took the crowd to the small side 
tent and introduced them to “ Little ” Georgy, 
Zingar, the Randolpho family and Ormond 
de Sylveste. The circus people all expressed 
profound gratification at the meeting. The 
young giant was particularly charmed. 

I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if you’d 
have a job like mine some day,” he remarked 
to Tom. 

If it comes to that I’ll remember Spud- 
ger’s,” grinned the high school lad. 

We can’t have any fellows on our ball 
nine that measure over six feet three inches,” 
said Blake. ' 

“ Ball nine — ball nine ! ” queried Joe. 
‘‘ What ball nine ? ” 

This tall Indian here has started one on 


Motor Car 


269 

paper,” put in Victor. He’s spoiled about a 
hundred perfectly good sheets. Why ? Can 
you play ? ” 

Kin I play ? ” echoed Joe. Well — some.” 

“ In the major league class, I suppose ? ” 

Joe grinned. 

Here, here, gentlemen,” exclaimed Victor, 

I hereby propose that the managing director 
of Clifton’s great baseball nine immediately 
gets an option on the services of one Joseph 
Rodgers, Esquire.” 

Oh, don’t I wish I could play ball and 
enjoy myself like other boys,” sighed the 
young giant. 

But think how awful it would be when 
you had to slide for second base,” laughed 
Victor. 

Wouldn’t I like to go to school an’ git on 
a team,” murmured Joe, staring moodily at 
the ground. 

“Stranger things have happened, Joe,” 
said Bob. 

“ It will never happen to me if Whiffin kin 
prevent it,” sniffed the circus boy. 

“ Brace up, lad,” said Ormond de Sylveste, 
in a kindly tone. “ At one time I was poor 


270 


The Rambler Club’s 


and ignorant, too. But there is always a 
chance for the most obscure to become the 
most prominent. I don’t wish to boast, gen- 
tlemen, but I venture to say that in my own 
profession there are few who dare assert their 
supremacy over me, and ” 

“ Say, is Bill Potts in there I ” a disagree- 
able voice suddenly thundered. By Jingo, 
I thought so I Ketched ag’in I If that fat 
barker stays here any longer there won’t be a 
man in the show workin’. I guess Joe’ll ex- 
pect to be President of the United States next. 
I don’t want no idlin’ around this tent, un- 
derstan’, an’ ” 

“ A little politeness, sir I ” expostulated the 
bareback rider, with dignity. 

I never heard the beat o’ that,” exclaimed 
Whiffin. His voice indicated great surprise. 

Even Bill Potts is a-borrowin’ nerve from 
the fat one. You want ter git out o’ them 
fancy clothes o’ yourn, an’ buckle down to 
some real work.” 

For an instant it actually looked as if Or- 
mond de Sylveste was about to make some 
fiery retort, but, apparently changing his 
mind, he bowed to his new acquaintances and 


Motor Car 


271 

strode moodily away, the picture of outraged 
dignity. 

If you don^t take them there * stars ’ down 
onc^t in a while yer couldn’t live in the same 
tent with ’em, they’d git that uppish,” came 
from Mr. Whiffin. 

Some allowances must be made for gen- 
ius,” laughed Dave. Come on, fellows. I’rn 
almost famished.” 

‘‘Be sure to come and see me again,” cried 
the treble voice of “ Little ” Georgy. 

Outside the tent, Dave led the way to the 
nearest restaurant with remarkable speed. 

“ Tom,” he said, “ when you become a great 
physician, if some of your patients have no 
appetite advise them to take a two or three 
day course of barking. Boys, I can eat twice 
as much as before.” 

“ I have always suspected where Brandon’s 
cash went,” chirped Victor. 

After leaving the restaurant the boys wan- 
dered around town until it was time for Dave’s 
duties to begin. Tom would have had no ob- 
jection to seeing another performance, but 
this idea receiving no encouragement from the 
others, he proposed going to a hotel. 


272 


The Rambler Club’s 


‘‘ Vwe got some letters to write to the fellows 
at school,’^ he said. 

The boys found a hotel near by, and, later 
on in the evening, leaving Tom hard at work 
scribbling, they strolled over to the circus 
grounds. 

Fellows, laughed Dave, who had been 
looking for them, I have resumed my occu- 
pation of gentleman and scholar. My connec- 
tion with Ollie Spudger’s Great Combined 
Peerless Circus and Menagerie has unex- 
pectedly ended. Jack Gray, having recovered 
his voice, will in future speak from the ros- 
trum.” 

Well, it was a jolly good lark, anyway,” 
remarked Bob. 

How can you tear yourself away from 
Mister Joe Rodgers ? ” asked Victor. 

“ He^s a good little chap,” declared Dave, 
and ought to amount to something if he 
should have an opportunity. There doesn’t 
seem much chance for him here, although 
Whiffin isn’t such a bad fellow when one gets 
to understand him.” 

By the gracious permission of Mr. Ollie 
Spudger, the boys were permitted to enter the 


Motor Car 


273 

tent so that they might say good-bye to the 
young giant. 

‘‘ Little Georgy seemed almost on the 
point of blubbering as he shook hands. Joe 
Rodgers was soon found. Joe’s face wore a 
strange expression. 

‘‘ So you are goin’ ter git, eh, fellows ? ” he 
remarked, slowly. I’m mighty glad I met 
this here bunch. Maybe I’ll see you ag’in 
some day.” 

And by that time Brandon might give 
you a job as his private secretary,” laughed 
Victor. 

When the crowd returned to the hotel they 
found that Tom’s literary labors were not yet 
concluded. The others, however, having de- 
cided that it was time to turn in, pen, ink and 
paper were promptly wrested from him. 

If I don’t get some rest soon,” declared 
Dave, I’ll be in danger of going to sleep right 
here.” 

Although this appeal was heeded, the task 
of awakening the historian next morning 
proved to be one of heroic proportions. 

Oh ho I ” he yawned, at last wearily 
dragging himself to his feet, in answer to 


274 


The Rambler Club’s 


their repeated knocking. All right, Bob ! 
No ; you needn’t batter down the door. I’m 
coming directly.” 

In spite of his objections breakfast was 
hurried through with unseemly haste, and a 
quick start made for the garage. 

There, they jumped into a machine looking 
as spick and span as though it had just come 
from the salesroom. 

“ And this time I do hope we manage to 
reach Milwaukee,” said Victor. 

If Tom doesn’t get out of our sight we 
may,” laughed Charlie. 

As the car whirled along the street Spudger’s 
tents were brought into view again, but none 
of those whom they had met could be seen. 

Poor old Joe,” sighed Dave. I’m afraid 
he’ll never get that chance he wants so badly.” 

With but a few vehicles on the long, straight 
road the motor car leaped forward at a rate 
which caused the miles to slip by with aston- 
ishing rapidity. Before the noon hour it 
rolled across the East Water Street bridge, and 
soon stopped in front of the garage where it 
had been previously left. 

“ Now we want to see Uncle Ralph the 


Motor Car 


275 


quickest ever ! ’’ exclaimed Victor, flicking a 
few spots of mud from his clothes. ‘‘ By 
George, it seems like an age since I was on 
board that yacht.’^ 

A few more weeks of the same stuff would 
make you a strong, husky chap,” said Tom, 
loftily. 

Like yourself, I suppose ? ” gurgled Victor. 

As the boys trooped into the hotel, perhaps 
with a trifle more noise and hilarity than was 
necessary, they heard a sonorous voice exclaim : 

‘‘ Well, well ; here you are, at last ! ” 

Captain Bunderley, his weather-beaten face 
wreathed in smiles, stamped forward. He 
seized Victor Collins^ hand. 

“ Vve never seen you looking better, lad ! ” 
he said. I want to hear all about those 
wonderful experiences youVe been having. 
Traveling with a circus, eh ? And, Bob, I’d 
like to know how you managed to And each 
other.” 

He led the way to the reception room, 
motioned them to seats and selected a divan 
on which to place his own heavy form. 

Sail ahead,” he commanded. ‘‘ No tack- 
ing, now ; run right before the wind.” 


276 The Rambler Club’s 

Upon Dave fell the role of principal spokes- 
man. The stout boy’s broad smile grew 
broader as he proceeded. Captain Bunderley’s 
deep-throated laughter boomed out at frequent 
intervals. 

Capital — capital I You’ll do, my boy I ” 
he exclaimed. “ ’Pon my word, you ought to 
succeed in life.” 

‘‘ Not even an aeroplane could keep him 
down I ” cried Tom. 

Bob Somers, too, had a great deal to say, and 
by lunch time Uncle Ralph had learned every- 
thing worth knowing and much else besides. 

Finally he rose to his feet. 

“ I have a little business to attend to this 
afternoon, so we’ll get something to eat at 
once,” he said. 

I was just about to suggest it myself,” 
murmured Dave. 

The dining-room, with its ornate columns 
and rich decorations of the Louis XV period, 
was a very attractive-looking place. It suited 
Dave’s artistic eye to a nicety. A sigh of con- 
tentment came from his lips as he took a seat 
at a table by the window. 

Course after course was placed before them. 


Motor Car 


277 


and the coffee stage of the proceedings had 
just arrived when the sound of loud voices in 
the corridor attracted general attention. 

“ Don^t go in there, boy,^^ exclaimed a com- 
manding voice. Get right out of this hotel ! ” 
“ I ain^t goin* to, I tells yer. I know this 
is the place ^cause he told me he was cornin’ 
here hisself.” 

“ There’s some mistake, boy ; none of our 
guests could possibly want to see you.” 

That’s where you’re foolin’ yerself. The 
clerk says he’s in the eatin’ parlor. I’ll wait 
outside while you goes in an’ looks around. 
He’s a big fat feller with a round face.” 

You’re the most impudent little rooster 
I’ve ever met. I’ll do nothing of the sort.” 

Then I’ll do it myself.” 

There was the sound of a struggle. 

Grab him, Richards 1 ” bawled the same 
loud voice. “ Quick I ” 

Following this came a snort of indignation 
and disgust, and the eyes of every one in the 
room, focused on the doorway, saw a stocky, 
freckle-faced boy swinging recklessly into the 
room, with the faultlessly-dressed manager 
close at his heels. 


278 The Rambler Club’s 


‘‘ Come back ! ordered the latter, angrily. 

Not on yer life I I sees him. There he 
is by the winder. Hello, Dave I ” 

Yes — actually — Joe Rodgers, flaming red 
vest, big brass buttons and all, had invaded 
the fashionable dining-room of a fashionable 
hotel, and, unabashed by his surroundings or 
by the looks on the faces of the,horrifled guests 
and waiters, was steering as straight a course 
as he could for the table at which Captain 
Bunderley and the boys were seated. 


CHAPTER XXIII 


THE ARM OF THE LAW 

I know’d I*d see I ” cried Joe, exult- 
ingly. “Iknow'ditI That chump a-chasin^ 
me says ter git, but I up an' comes in jist the 
same." 

“ I beg your pardon, gentlemen I " exclaimed 
the agitated manager. I assure you that it 
is not our fault ; you see, the young " 

It's all right, sir I " boomed Captain Bun- 
derley. 

Oh, — oh ! " gasped the manager. ** I'm 
gratified to hear it." 

Red-faced and flustered he promptly turned 
away. 

Joe, with as little ceremony as though he 
was in the menagerie tent, drew up a chair, 
plumped himself down upon it and laid his 
cap across one knee. Then, having stared at 
the captain with solemn earnestness for a mo- 
ment, blurted out : 


279 


28o The Rambler Club’s 


Dave, IVe shook Whiffin I 
What 1 Left the show ? ” cried the his- 
torian. You don’t mean it ? ” 

‘‘ Yes ; I sure have, Dave.” 

^‘Well, this is a big surprise, all right,” 
quoth Tom. 

It isn’t to me,” giggled Victor. I had an 
idea last night that Dave’s particular crony 
was up to something desperate.” 

I presume this is the boy you told me 
about ? ” broke in Captain Bunderley. 

Yes, sir. Permit me to formally introduce 
Mr. Joseph Rodgers, of Iowa,” laughed Victor. 

What made you leave the show ? ” asked 
the captain. 

‘‘Him!” 

Joe’s brown finger pointed straight toward 
Dave Brandon. 

“ I made you leave ? ” cried Dave. How ? ” 
’Cause, when I meets a feller what’s got 
learnin’ like you, I couldn’t stan’ it no longer. 
I wants ter be somethin’.” 

Captain Bunderley was interested. 

“ Joe, your desire to rise is commendable,” 
he exclaimed, heartily. “ Have you ever 
spoken to Mr. Whiffin about it? ” 


Motor Car 


281 


I begins to talk to 4m this mornin’, an^ 
he ups an’ gits riled ter beat the band. ‘ I 
wish’t I’d never laid eyes on that fat feller,’ 
says he. * Brandon’s been puttin’ all them 
fool notions inter your head.’ ‘ Look ’ere, 
Whiffin,’ says I, ‘ don’t you never say nothin^ 
ag’in ’im ; he’s the whitest chap I ever see.’ ” 

“ So I have a champion at last,” chuckled 
Dave. 

Then Whiffin hollers fer me ter git back 
ter work or he’d fetch me a good one on the 
ear. That makes me most bile over — him — 
Whiffin, talkin’ like that I So I skips right 
out.” 

** How’d you get here — board a fast freight ? ” 
inquired Victor. 

I did not. I stepped inter a real car, with 
real winders an’ real seats, an’ I’ve got seventy- 
five cents left.” 

Goodness, what a risk — fioating around in 
a real city with that much real money in your 
pocket I ” said Victor. 

Joe’s thoughts were on something else. 

Gee, I can most see Whiffin hollerin’ his 
way around the show an’ askin’ everybody if 
they’ve seen that young scamp, Joe I My, I’ll 


282 The Rambler Club’s 


bet he’s so mad he’s clean forgot that quarter 
he give to Dave the other night.” 

What do you expect to do in Milwaukee ? ” 
asked Captain Bunderley. 

“ Do I ” echoed Joe, rather blankly. I 
dunno I ” Thoughtfully, he ran his fingers 
through his bushy hair. I — I — kinder 
thought as how Dave could tell me.” 

Has Mr. Whiffin any claim on your serv- 
ices? ” 

Nix ; he certainly ain’t,” asserted Joe, with 
considerable emphasis. 

Is the circus coming here ? ” 

Yes, sir ! Day after to-morrow.” 

“ Well, I’ll look after you till then.” Uncle 
Ralph beckoned to a waiter. “ What will you 
have to eat, Joe?” 

“ Eat ! Me eat in a — a — place like this ? ” 
stammered Joe, for the first time abashed. 

“ Certainly I Why not? Order just what 
you please.” 

Joe stared from one to another as though 
he feared that his ears were deceiving him. 
Then his eyes fell on the waiter, whose profes- 
sional dignity was sadly shocked by the pres- 
ence before him of such an uncouth specimen. 


Motor Car 


283 

Gimme a great big hunk o’ bread an’ 
cheese an’ a piece o’ real apple pie, with no 
skimpin’ o’ the apples, neither,” he said, “ an’ 
a glass o’ water twic’t. Thankin’ you kindly, 
mister ; I won’t do nothin’ to that pile o’ 
grub when it comes.” 

And you may add to that order plenty of 
roast beef and potatoes,” added the captain. 

I have an idea that our friend has a famous 
appetite.” 

Joe Rodgers had never really lived until 
that afternoon. He seemed to be fairly lifted 
out of himself, and a side of life was revealed 
which he had never before dreamed could ex- 
ist. 

“ Honest, Dave,” he declared emphatically, 
I can’t never go back to Spudger’s.” 

‘‘ We’ll see if anything can be done to help 
you,” said Dave, encouragingly. But you 
ought not to have run away. Anyhow, fel- 
lows, I propose that we invite Joe to see the 
sights of Milwaukee from a seat in the motor 
car.” 

Even Victor Collins made no objection. He 
was beginning to realize that character counts 
for more than appearance, and that the pass- 


284 The Rambler Club’s 

port to respectable society consists of some- 
thing besides good clothes. 

Presently, leaving Captain Bunderley in 
the reading room, the boys walked briskly 
out upon the street. 

At the garage Joe became immensely inter- 
ested in the automobile. 

It's the finest I ever see," he cried, admir- 
ingly. Looks most too good to use." 

Climb in, Joe," commanded Bob. 

He sprang to his place in the driver's seat, 
pushed the button on the dash, and, immedi- 
ately, the thunderous din of the motor echoed 
from every side and corner of the big inte- 
rior. 

You've got ter know somethin’ to be an 
engineer of one o' these things," exclaimed 
Joe. Still, I wouldn't be a bit skeered to 
try my hand at drivin'." 

There is nothing like a motor car to chase 
dull care away," said Dave, who was reclining 
at ease on the rear cushions. Let's see : 
what does Bryant say ? " 

“ Nothing about motor cars, that's quite 
sure," laughed Bob, as the wheels began to 
revolve. 







HE SPRANG TO HIS PLACE 








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Motor Car 


285 

Many vehicles and pedestrians were about, 
and warning blasts of the horn were often 
sounded. But the boys, not being in any 
particular hurry, gave Chauffeur Somers an 
easy job, following whichever streets their 
fancy dictated. 

This is rippin’ I ” cried Joe, enthusiastic- 
ally. Feels jist like gittin^ boosted along 
without nothin^ doin’ it.” 

The car slowly rolled through the business 
section, giving them interesting glimpses of 
attractive stores and windows filled with all 
sorts of goods. They crossed and recrossed 
the Milwaukee River, and, finally, on one of 
the more quiet streets, were bowling steadily 
along when the actions of a certain policeman 
attracted Bob Somers’ attention. He was 
standing by the curb with his eyes eagerly 
fixed on the approaching car. 

Hey there,” came a loud command. 
‘‘ Stop I ” 

Is he speaking to us ? ” inquired Bob, 
turning to his companions with a puzzled 
look. He glanced about, and, seeing no other 
vehicles near, answered his own question. 
“ Yes, he certainly is.” 


286 The Rambler Club’s 


“ Have we busted any traffic regulations, I 
wonder? ’’ asked Charlie. 

“ Maybe it’s ’cause we haven’t got no cow- 
catcher,” said Joe, with a grin. 

“ Hey there — stop ! ” 

The man in uniform was stepping out into 
the street, the significant movement of his 
arm indicating an authority not to be ques- 
tioned. 

Ha, ha — somebody’s pinched — jugged I ” 
cried Joe. “ Is this the feller you want ? ” 
His finger dug sharply into Victor Collins’ 
ribs. “ I’ll help you tote him along.” 

‘M’d like to know what all this means I ” 
exclaimed Tom, in his most manly tones. 

Bob Somers smilingly awaited an expla- 
nation. 

The policeman, looking searchingly at each 
in turn, took from his pocket a memorandum 
book. Then, glancing over the pages, gave a 
grunt of approval. 

Correct, all right. Descriptions and license 
number correspond.” 

This information, while interesting, did not 
enlighten the boys as to the meaning of his 
strange action. 


Motor Car 


287 

“ Would you have any objection to telling 
us why we’ve been stopped?” drawled Dave, 
from the rear. 

I don’t think we ought to stand for any- 
thing like this,” growled Tom, bristling up in 
a very threatening fashion. 

Which one o’ ’em shall I chuck out o’ the 
car for yer ? ” inquired Joe. You kin take 
any but the fat feller.” 

The officer glanced at him and wagged his 
head knowingly. 

The police station is just around the cor- 
ner, boys,” he answered, quietly. I reckon 
the sergeant will tell you what it’s all 
about.” 

The idea ! Just listen to that ! ” stormed 
Tom. “ I’d demand an explanation right 
here, Bob Somers. Don’t let those spokes 
move even as much as half an inch.” 

If there’s any fightin’ to be done I’m right 
here to help you,” laughed Joe. 

Dave Brandon smiled languidly. 

** In spite of ourselves, we seem destined to 
have fame pushed upon us,” he exclaimed. 

It looks as though something is rocking the 
pedestal.” 


288 


The Rambler Club’s 


“ We are too polite not to accept such a press- 
ing invitation/^ grinned Bob Somers. 

All the same, I’ll bet we can sue somebody 
for this ! ” cried Victor. My father’s best 
friend is a United States senator, and he ” 

A series of crisp, vibrating notes from the 
motor drowned his voice. The car moved 
forward, and, always under the watchful eye 
of the law, as represented in the person of the 
man in uniform, chugged its way around the 
corner, to presently come to a stop before a 
building of a dark, unpleasantly grim appear- 
ance. 

We know where we’re going, and we’re on 
our way I ” cried Dave. ‘‘ All of us wanted in 
there, officer ? ” 

“ Oh, yes. We won’t steal your car,” 
grinned the policeman. “ Kindly step out.” 

They followed the officer up a broad flight of 
stone steps, pushed past a pair of swinging 
doors and entered a large square room. At 
one end two desks stood on a platform with 
an ornamental railing in front. 

Several policemen lounging on a bench 
looked up with interest as the crowd marched 
across the floor. A large, stout man, with 


Motor Car 


289 

iron gray hair and mustache sitting behind 
one of the desks glanced inquiringly at the 
officer. 

These are the boys mentioned in the tele- 
gram, sergeant,’^ explained the policeman. 
^^Description of the one that’s wanted just 
fits.” 

He waved his hand toward Joe Rodgers. 

Me — me?” cried Joe. Then an inkling 
of the true situation for the first time dawned 
upon him. Oh, Dave, I’m ketched I ” he 
exclaimed, almost pitifully. Whiffin’s done 
it. I might have know’d he would I But I 
ain’t never goin’ back — perlice, or noperlice,” 
he added. 

Joe, blank with despair, as new-found hopes 
were shaken, stared moodily at the fioor. 

Now I suppose you’ll have to get a hun- 
dred thousand dollars bail, Rodgers,” said 
Victor. Of course, this is one of the most 
important cases of the year.” 

Well, what’s he goin’ to do with me ? ” 
demanded Joe. I’m goin’ ter stand up for 
me rights.” 

You must be detained until the arrival of 
the complainant” — the sergeant glanced at 


2go The Rambler Club’s 

a paper in his hand — “ Peter Whiffin. You 
look like a respectable crowd of boys/’ he 
added, taking a careful observation of the 
faces before him. 

Fve never pinched a better lot/’ agreed the 
policeman. 

“ Sergeant, may I have the use of your 
’phone for a moment ? ” spoke up Dave. 

“ Certainly I ” answered the official. 

In a short time Dave, his mouth at the 
transmitter, was explaining matters to Captain 
Bunderley. 

Says he’ll be over here within an hour,” 
he announced, hanging up the receiver. 

No ; he didn’t seem surprised, Bob. I guess 
the captain is too old to be surprised at any- 
thing.” 

The crowd took seats on a bench, their 
lively conversation soon helping to cheer up 
the dejected Joe Rodgers. But even then he 
found the long wait trying to his nerves. 

At length Uncle Ralph tramped noisily 
into the room. 

“ It just shows how careful one must be in 
forming new acquaintances, boys,” he chuckled. 

I’ve only known you for a few days — yet 


Motor Car 


291 


here I find myself in a police station, and all 
on your account. What’s to be done, ser- 
geant, with such a reckless lot?” 

That’s a hard one to answer,” grinned the 
official. 

Well, now, let’s get right down to busi- 
ness. When will Mr. Whiffin be here? I’ve 
become interested in this boy, sergeant, and 
I don’t propose to let all the talking be on 
one side.” 

By Jingo, if you’ll only stand up for me, 
mister. I’ll never forgit it ! ” cried Joe. 

“ I hope you’re going to make a base hit, 
Rodgers,” laughed Tom. 

Mr. Whiffin will be here to-morrow 
morning,” explained the sergeant. ‘‘ Until 
then the boy will have to remain with us.” 

“ And I’ll be here, too, with this strong- 
arm squad,” laughed the captain, ready to 
face the manager of Spudger’s Peerless show.” 


CHAPTER XXIV 


THE JUDGE INTERFERES 

The gloomy weather was over at last. Pud- 
dles and pools were fast drying up in the 
warmth of pleasant sunshine, while a balmy 
breeze had replaced the blustery wind. 

Say, Bob Somers,” remarked Victor Col- 
lins, as all were on their way to the police 
station next morning, ‘‘ didn’t I hear you 
’phoning to some one last night ? ” 

^^Sure thing, Vic.” 

Who was it? ” 

You may know before the morning is 
over.” 

‘‘ Oh, come now, Somers, tell me.” 

‘‘No; not a word, Vic,” answered Bob, 
smilingly. 

The large, square room in the police station 
looked very differently from the way it had 
on the afternoon before. Already it contained 
a large number of people, and in the buzz of 
292 


Motor Car 


293 


conversation, the light footfalls, and the ap- 
pearance of a solemn magistrate’s clerk poring 
over a great ledger, there was something which 
filled those whose nerves were not of the 
strongest with a curious feeling of restraint. 

As each new arrival entered the room 
tongues were stilled for the instant, for the 
magistrate was due to arrive. 

Joe Rodgers, in spite of the boys’ support 
and encouragement, lacked the air of rugged 
bravado which usually characterized him. 

“ I don’t wanter go back to Whiffin, fellers,” 
he wailed, continually. But I know that 
he’s goin’ to put up an awful holler, ’cause 
when I gits down to work I kin do a turrible 
lot.” 

Brace up, Joe,” said Dave. You are 
not back in the circus yet.” 

Suddenly the sound of voices and footsteps 
at the door much louder than any which had 
come before caused that particular part of the 
room to become the target of many eyes. 

A large, portly man entered and directed 
his footsteps straight toward the desk behind 
the railing. This, and the hush which im- 
mediately ensued, proclaimed him to be the 


294 


The Rambler Club’s 


magistrate. Closely following came Peter 
Whiffin and Mr. Ollie Spudger. 

The former^s eyes were instantly roving 
about the room, and his keen gaze soon picked 
out from the throng the forms of Joe Rodgers 
and his friends. 

There he is, Spudger I ” he exclaimed, in 
a voice which rang through the room with 
appalling distinctness. “ He runned away, 
all right, but he didnT git very far. Here, 
you, boy’’ — he advanced, with his finger 
poised threateningly in the air — it’s back to 
the canvas tents for you. Come right along.” 

I ain’t goin’ to I ” growled Joe. 

Uncle Ralph, permit me to introduce Mr. 
Whiffin, of somewhere,” chirped Victor Collins. 

The circus manager glared at the burly 
skipper. 

“ Who are you ? ” he demanded, roughly. 

What does this mean ? ” 

Captain Bunderley was disposed to be diplo- 
matic. 

I’m here in the interests of this boy, Mr. 
Whiffin,” he said, politely. 

“ Well, I can’t see that it’s any of your 
affair.” 


Motor Car 


295 


** Decidedly not I ” seconded Mr. Spudger. 

This here fat Brandon filled his head 
chuck full of nonsense, an’, as if that weren’t 
bad enough, he gits him to actually run away — 
run away from his best friend. Why, 1 could 
have the law on ’im ! ” 

I had nothing to do with it, Mr. Whifiin,” 
answered Dave. 

Oh, cut it out, now. Yer can’t fool me. 
Yer took ’im right along in the automobile. 
I know yer did.” 

’Tain’t nothin’ of the sort, Whifiin I ” 
cried Joe. I rid on the train. An’ I kin 
prove it.” 

What I ” exclaimed Mr. Whifiin. In spite 
of his suspicions, there was something in Joe’s 
earnest manner which impelled him to accept 
his words as the truth. ‘‘ What ! An’ you 
wasted good money that way ? It’s perfectly 
outrageous, that’s what it is.” 

'' Order — order I ” 

A gavel banged with explosive force against 
the desk. The magistrate was speaking, and 
in such a tone that even Mr. Whifiin felt 
called upon to moderate his voice. 

While the hearings went on, he pleaded. 


296 The Rambler Club’s 

threatened and expostulated with Joe, curtly 
declining to listen to any of Uncle Ralph^s 
suggestions. And every argument which the 
manager advanced Joe, who stood backed up 
against the wall, met with this reply : 

Naw, I ain’t a-goin’ ter do it I ” 

“ Well, then you’ll go right up before the 
magistrate,” declared Mr. Whiffin. I reckon 
you’ll listen to him, all right.” 

“ It’s the only thing that will put any sense 
into his head,” agreed Mr. Spudger. 

But even this prospect did not make Joe 
waver. 

I’ve got a tongue in me head, an’ kin use 
it,” he exclaimed, defiantly. 

Joseph Rodgers I ” 

This name called out in the monotonous 
tones of the clerk finally brought all before 
the rail. 

Where is the complainant, Peter Whifiin ? ” 
asked the magistrate. 

Right here,” answered the manager. 

Has this matter been settled ? That’s the 
boy, I suppose ? Is he your ward ? ” 

'' I’m jist as much his guardeen as if it had 
been writ on paper,” asserted Peter Whiffin, 


Motor Car 


297 


vigorously. I’ve got a letter from his uncle 
to show how things stand. An’, besides, I’ve 
given ’im his grub an’ clothes for years.” 

An’ ain’t I worked an’ worked until me 
hands was blistered to pieces?” screeched 
Joe. 

I think there ought to be no difficulty in 
coming to some amicable agreement about the 
boy,” broke in Captain Bunderley. “ We do 
not wish to infringe on any one’s rights, but 
all of us think that his future should be given 
some consideration. My young friend here ” 
— he indicated Dave — will guarantee to find 
him work in his home town, so that he will 
have an opportunity to attend school.” 

By gum I ” cried Joe, his eyes sparkling, 
^‘jist listen to that I ” 

An^ I kin say there’s nothin’ doin’,” said 
Mr. Whiffin, explosively. 

Produce that letter you spoke about,” 
returned the magistrate. 

Here it is,” said Mr. Whiffin. 

The official’s eyes ran over the contents. 

“ All it seems to show is that the boy’s 
guardian knows he is with you,” he said, 
slowly. '' But, still, I hardly think that I 


298 The Rambler Club’s 

have any authority to take him from under 
your care and protection.’’ 

The expression on Joe Rodgers’ face, which 
a moment before had been so full of hope, 
changed to one of blank despair. 

'‘Have you been ill-treated, Joe?” asked 
the magistrate, in kindly tones. 

" No, sir ; I ain’t.” 

" What’s your complaint, then ? ” 

" If I stays with ’im I won’t never have no 
chanc’t to git an eddication, an’ ” 

" That is a pity. But it is not enough to 
justify me in taking any action. Perhaps 
you may be able to make some arrangement 
with Mr. Whiffin so that you can go to school 
in the winter.” 

" Your Honor, I have a word to say about 
this case.” 

A strong, clear voice attracted the atten- 
tion of every one in the court room. They 
saw a tall, commanding-looking man step 
before the rail ; and they also saw the mag- 
istrate stare at him with an air of bewilder- 
ment. 

“ Judge Hampton I ” he stammered. 

The former jurist nodded. 


Motor Car 


299 

“ I appear before you as the representative 
of Joe Rodgers/^ 

And now I know who the big Indian was 
’phoning to last night/’ said Victor, in a loud 
whisper. 

“ Gee, that’s the time Bob made a safe hit,” 
murmured Tom. 

Mr. Whiffin’s face expressed a comical 
degree of bewilderment. 

“ What — what ? ” he gasped. “ I’d like to 
know what right you have to meddle in this 
case I ” 

Here’s a letter which Mr. Whiffin re- 
ceived from the boy’s uncle,” said the magis- 
trate, handing the missive to the former 
jurist. 

There was a moment of silence while Judge 
Hampton was reading it. 

You are in a pretty poor position, sir,” he 
said, looking up from the sheet and addressing 
Mr. Whiffin. “ This amounts to nothing. 
The duties and responsibilities of guardian- 
ship cannot be so lightly thrust into another’s 
hands by a relative.” 

Mr. Whiffin glared savagely. 

I tell you I won’t stand for anything like 


300 The Rambler Club’s 

this ! ” he cried. “ Judge or no judge, I have 
my rights/^ 

And I’ll back you up to the limit,” said 
Mr. Spudger, who could see, in the way events 
were shaping themselves, that the circus was 
in danger of losing the services of one who 
had been trained in the business. 

I feel that the advantages which this boy 
may gain will so far offset any mere personal 
loss to Mr. Whiffin that I must ask your 
Honor to parole Joe Rodgers into the care of 
Captain Bunderley until his relatives can be 
communicated with.” 

Request granted I ” exclaimed the magis- 
trate. 

Joe, highly delighted, grasped Dave Bran- 
don by the arm. 

Dave,” he said, huskily, you’re the best 
feller in the whole world.” 


CHAPTEK XXV 
joe’s chance 

Captain Bunderley, assuming charge of 
the Joe Rodgers case, a cause celebre on ac- 
count of Judge Hampton’s participation in it, 
within a few days had received the following 
letter from a small village in Iowa : 

Dear Sir : — 

“ In regards to Joe Rodgers, my wife 
says if you can do better for him than Mr. 
Whiffin, and he can get some education, take 
the kid, and welcome. I guess he don’t owe 
Whiffin nothing. 

Maybe Joe ought to have a chance, as you 
say. But circumstances didn’t allow me to 
keep him, and knocking around the world 
ain’t good for a boy. 

‘‘ Hoping that when he learns to write he’ll 
send me a letter, I am. 

Respectfully yours, 

Ben Hankerson. 

P. S. Of course I’ll expect to hear straight 
ahead how he’s getting along.” 

That same afternoon all parties concerned 
301 


302 


The Rambler Club’s 


met in the magistrate’s private office. Mr. 
Whiffin’s bellicose air had somewhat subsided, 
partly due to the fact that he had consulted a 
lawyer and received no encouragement. 

If I knew that the fat feller had made him 
run away I’d fight the case to the end,” he 
confided to Mr. Spudger. '' But, bein’ as the 
kid says he didn’t — an’ he’s pretty straight 
goods regardin’ the truth — I guess I’ll have to 
pass him up.” 

“ And, after all, Whiffin,” said Spudger, re- 
flectively, the boy will get the chance he 
wants.” 

“ He sure could never make no animal 
tamer nor performer, an’ he ain’t got the face 
fora ringmaster,” said Peter Whiffin. *‘No; 
it would be the big wagon and long drives for 
him. Besides, the show business ain’t what 
it used ter be.” 

“ There ain’t nothin’ what is,” said Mr. 
Spudger. An’ I guess they said the same 
thing a hundred years ago.” 

Judge Hampton had been quietly consult- 
ing with the magistrate and Captain Bunder- 
ley. Bluff and hearty. Captain Bunderley’s 
part in the conference had not been quiet. 


Motor Car 


303 


It will be the best thing in the world for 
the boy,” he said. “ He has strength and 
ambition ; and those are the only two things 
an' American boy needs to make him a success 
in life.” 

“ Mr. Whiffin ” — the former judge turned 
toward the showman — our proposal is this : 
work will be found for Joe at Kingswood, 
Wisconsin, and he will be given an oppor- 
tunity to attend school. You, as a man of 
the world, must know that this is the best 
thing to do.” 

‘‘ I can’t fight ag’in a dozen,” answered Mr. 
Whiffin. ‘‘ An’ I know that the boy’s head 
will be so turned after all this fuss over him 
that he’d never do a lick o’ work right ag’in.” 

“ By gum, I can’t hardly believe that sich 
good luck has come to me,” said Joe. 

“ You kin begin to believe it right now,” 
remarked Mr. Spudger. An’ don’t never 
forgit that you owe everything to Whiffin an’ 
me ; because if you hadn’t been with the 
show this wouldn’t have happened.” 

Yes, that’s quite true,” assented Captain 
Bunderley. You do owe them a great deal. 
Shake hands with your former employers, 


304 


The Rambler Club’s 


Joe. On such an auspicious occasion for you 
there must be no ill-feeling.’’ 

That’s right,” assented Joe, heartily. 

** I ain’t got none — not a bit of it,” said Mr. 
Peter Whiffin, extending two bony fingers. 

What riled me at first was to think that 
Brandon should have inweigled him inter 
running off.” 

An’ Joe beating it without so much as 
leavin’ a card of regrets,” growled Mr. Spud- 
ger. 

^^But as it’s all for the boy’s good, I’m 
game. Good luck, Joe.” 

Whiffin, you’re all right, twic’t I ” ex- 
claimed Joe Rodgers. You’ll find I’m goin’ 
to amount to somethin’, an’ we’ll always be 
frens.” 

Yes, Joe Rodgers’ chance had come at last. 
Through his fortunate meeting with Dave 
Brandon he would be able to gratify his am- 
bition to go to school. 

And I’m going to keep an eye on you,” 
exclaimed Captain Bunderley, when they had 
taken leave of Judge Hampton and the circus 
men. “ Before many months are over you’ll 
find me turning up at the school. And if I 


Motor Car 


305 

don^t hear a good account of you there’ll be 
trouble.” 

“ And just to think,” remarked Dave, re- 
flectively, that to-morrow we’ll be leaving 
for our home in Kingswood I Seems funny, 
Bob, but I thought this part of our trip would 

only add a few pages to my history. But ” 

It means a thousand, at least,” broke in 
Tom, with a laugh. When it’s flnished it’ll 
be as long as an encyclopedia, and lots more 
exciting.” 

The boys felt rather sober when the time 
came next morning to say good-bye to Captain 
Bunderley and Victor Collins. Each had 
taken a great fancy to the bluff old skipper, 
and, strangely enough, Victor seemed to have 
become a very different sort of a boy from the 
one who had begun the trip with them. 

Say, fellows,” he remarked, as he shook 
hands warmly with Bob Somers, ^^you can 
count on seeing me again. I’m kind of cu- 
rious to take a look at that high school. I’ve 
found that you’re the kind of chaps who im- 
prove on acquaintance. Dave is certainly a 
winner.” 

“ We’ll be delighted to see you, Vic,” re- 


3o 6 The Rambler Club’s 

turned Bob. And perhaps you’ll find that 
Kingswood isn’t such a slow place, after all.” 

As long as the crowd was within sight of 
the hotel they saw Victor standing on the 
steps waving his hand. 

The worst of traveling around like this,” 
said Tom, “ is that you meet a lot of fellows, 
and just as soon as you get to like them to 
beat the band you have to say good-bye.” 

Yes, I noticed you liked Victor well 
enough at one time to want to hit him on the 
eye,” exclaimed Blake. And this remark 
Tom passed by with haughty silence. 

Once more they were at the garage ; and 
once more they jumped into the car. The 
blasts of the horn which had grown so famil- 
iar to their ears again warned the passers-by 
of their approach. 

On the outskirts of the city, Tom, who was 
sitting behind Dave, touched the stout boy on 
the shoulder. 

Look at Blake,” he exclaimed, in a low 
tone. “Honest — being with this crowd has 
certainly done him a lot of good.” 

The usually timid “ grind ” had exchanged 
places with Bob Somers and was actually 


Motor Car 


307 


driving the car at a good clip along a street 
which was by no means deserted. And, more 
than that, Blake looked as unconcerned as 
though handling a big touring car was the 
easiest thing in the world. 

A few more months,'^ went on Tom, loft- 
ily, “ and that yellow streak some of the boys 
talked about couldnT be found with a micro- 
scope.^^ 

That's so," admitted Dave. ‘‘ All Charlie 
needs is a bit of encouragement, and he will 
be a mighty useful member of our ball team. 
What were you saying, Joe ? " 

That I jist feel like yelling for all I'm 
worth." 

Please don't do it now," laughed Dave. 
** I'm most uncommonly sleepy, and this de- 
lightful motion is calling me to the land of 
nod." 

Make the most of it, Dave," cried Bob, 
from the front seat, “ for the Rambler Club's 
motor car is taking us nearer and nearer to 
the place where mighty little nodding can be 
done." 

I know it," drawled the stout boy, and 
I shall assert my rights." 


3o 8 The Rambler Club’s 

In spite of Dave’s admonition Joe could not 
restrain a joyous shout. 

And it was astonishing how that reckless 
Charlie Blake increased his speed after they 
had turned into a long, straight country road. 
Many a person stopped to look after the flying 
car, which kept steadily on and on until lost 
to view in the distance. 


Other Stories in this Series are : 

THE RAMBLER CLUB AFLOAT 

THE RAMBLER CLUB’S WINTER CAMP 

THE RAMBLER CLUB IN THE MOUNTAINS 

THE RAMBLER CLUB ON CIRCLE T RANCH 

THE RAMBLER CLUB AMONG THE LUMBERJACKS 

THE RAMBLER CLUB’S GOLD MINE 

THE RAMBLER CLUB’S AEROPLANE 

THE RAMBLER CLUB’S HOUSE-BOAT 

THE RAMBLER CLUB’S BALL NINE 


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